Messed-Up To Set-Ups - A MichaelHalcomb.Live Podcast

In Episode #57 of the “Messed-Up To Set-Ups” podcast, I continue my chat with comedian Brinn Daniels. Here, in Part 2 of our conversation, we dive into the art of crafting jokes. We discuss Brinn’s unique takes on family, superheroes, and the quirks of life in Florida. We workshop one of Brinn’s jokes, make up some jokes on the spot, and get into some playful banter about Marvel. This episode is packed with lots of laughter and creative insights. Tune in!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, you should check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE. Have fun!MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Join me, Michael Halcomb, for as I chat with the hilarious Brinn Daniels about her unique path from teaching to doing stand-up comedy. In Part 1 of this two-part interview, we discuss Brinn’s experiences in Nashville’s vibrant and growing comedy scene as well as her time as an intern at SNL, and how it’s all influenced her comedy career. Also, you’ll want to hear our thoughts on “clean comedy” and Brinn’s family’s superhero-like antics! Tune in for some laughs, insights, and, in Part 2, a behind-the-scenes look at joke crafting. Oh, and if you’re interested in learning to write jokes, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

In my second chat with comedian, John Schaefer, we explore the intricacies of joke writing as John brings an original joke and we workshop it. We also discuss the science behind crafting the perfect punchline. In the midst of that, we also discuss the importance of brevity, the art of crowd work, and share personal anecdotes about our comedic influences. The landscape of comedy is evolving, which we touch on, and that’s why it’s so important to practice honing one’s craft. So, whether you’re a seasoned comedian or just starting out, this episode offers valuable takeaways and plenty of laughs such that you should give it a watch or listen. Oh, and if you’re interested in learning to write jokes, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Heyyyo! It’s Episode #54 of the “Messed-Up To Set-Ups” Podcast. In this episode, I chat with CA-based comedian, John Schaefer, and we get into his fascinating journey from improv to stand-up comedy. We discuss how years of improvisation shaped John’s unique comedic style and the challenges he faced transitioning to the stand-up stage. Along the way, we also talk about the art of joke writing and the importance of audience connection. This episode, Part 1 of 2, offers a behind-the-scenes look at one man’s journey into stand-up comedy. Tune in for laughs, stories, and a deeper understanding of what it takes to make people laugh in a room full of strangers.Also, if you’re interested in joke writing or trying to do stand-up, you should definitely check out my online class “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” which has over 4.5 hours of content. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

It’s Episode #53 of “The Messed-Up To Set-Ups” Podcast, which means it’s also part 2 of my chat with comedian Daniel Quintero. In this episode, we engage in a lively discussion about the intricacies of joke writing, we workshop one of Daniel’s original jokes, then we spend some time making up jokes on the spot. Tune in for a pretty candid conversation filled with humor, insights, and practical tips for aspiring comedians wondering how to navigate the world of stand-up comedy.PS: If you’re seriously interested in trying stand-up, the best place to start is learning how to write jokes. You can do that by taking my online course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

In episode #52 of the “Messed Up the Setups” podcast, I chat with Weird-Al-Inspired comedian, Daniel Quintero (aka Arriba Dude). We dive into the unique challenges of performing in various venues ,from the intimate settings of church events to the bustling atmosphere of comedy clubs. We discuss, among other things, how different environments shape our performances. Tune in to hear our thoughts on adapting material, engaging diverse audiences, and the art of storytelling across different stages. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just curious about the comedy scene, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a traveling stand-up comedian.If you’re interested in trying stand-up, start with learning to write jokes. You can do that by taking my online course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

It’s episode #51 y’all! Join me, comedian Michael Halcomb, and comedian/roast battler Mike Byrd, as we turn up the heat in a lively roasting session on the “Messed Up the Setups” podcast. Watch as we try to navigate the fine line between humor and insult. This episode is packed with laughter, clever slams, and a masterclass in the art of roasting. In other words, it’s perfect for anyone who loves a good-natured ribbing and wants to learn how to deliver a roast with style.If you’re interested in learning to roast and/or write jokes, check out my Udemy Course titled “The Joke Writer’s Lab” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

It’s Episode #50 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast! How sick is that?!?! 50 episodes and they’re all FREE! And, for this milestone, we’ve got a killer episode. Join me as I sit down with Mike Byrd, a NC-based comedian, an insanely talented roaster, and one of the few guys I know who’s about as obsessed with joke structure as I am. We dive into his journey into comedy but also get into the nuts and bolts of it all, from comedic persona to joke writing to performing stand-up. This is a super fun episode that gives you insight into the comedy life. Tune in!And…if you’re interested at all in learning to write jokes, check out my online course titled “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” which you can get HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

It’s Episode #49 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast, which means we’re only 1 episode away from #50! That’s sick!!! Make sure you’re subscribed! For now, join me as I sit down with Karina Fabian, a comedian, author, and speaker, for a lively conversation where we work on one of her jokes and make up a bunch of jokes on the spot. This is a really fun one that lets you peek behind the curtains of what comedians actually do. Tune in!And…if you’re interested at all in learning to write jokes, check out my online course titled “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” which you can get HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

It’s Episode #48 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast. Join me, comedian Michael Halcomb, as I sit down with Karina Fabian, a comedian, author, and speaker, for a lively conversation about balancing comedy with personal life. Discover how Karina's unique experiences, from living near rocket launches to her journey into stand-up comedy, shape her humor and perspective. This episode offers a delightful mix of laughter, storytelling, and insights into the art of finding humor in everyday life. Tune in for a fun chat about what it means to live a life full of comedy and creativity. MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

It’s Episode 47 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast! Here comedians Michael Halcomb and Jerry Morrison dive into an impromptu joke-writing session. Watch as they challenge each other with spontaneous prompts, crafting punchlines on the fly. This segment is a testament to their quick wit and creativity, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the comedic process. Tune in for some great laughs, unexpected twists, and a glimpse into the playful world of joke crafting/writing!Oh, you should also check out Michael’s joke-writing course titled “The Joke Writer’s Lab.” It’s 4.5-hours of content you’re sure to find useful. MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

In the 46th episode of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast, comedians Michael Halcomb and Jerry Morrison enjoy some great laughs while they dive into the nuances of comedy styles. Jerry, an actual rock star (bass player in the band Bleach), shares his journey in the Nashville comedy scene, emphasizing the importance of kindness in humor and how it contrasts with the often ambiguous standards of clean comedy. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on how comedians navigate labels and craft their unique comedic voices. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that, in some pretty fun ways, challenges the conventional boundaries of comedy!Also, check out Michael’s joke writing course, The Joke Writer’s Lab, HERE. MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

In Episode #43 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast, I talk with comedian Chrysalis Goring about the dynamic world of improv and the benefits of it for stand-up comedians. Also, Chrysalis shares her journey from stage combat to stand-up, revealing how her background in acting and improv has equipped her with the confidence to engage audiences in real-time. We also discuss the challenges and rewards of balancing scripted jokes with spontaneous crowd interactions, and learn why crowd work is becoming an essential skill for modern comedians. Tune in for a fun discussion filled with fun, insights, and a few laughs along the way. Watch on YouTube HERE. MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hi Friends, I’m stoked to share Episode #43 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast with you. In this episode I continue my chat with Indiana-based comedian Hayden Yes. Episode 1 is causing quite a stir over on YouTube (see HERE). So, Part 2 is probably gonna get some attention. Lol! That’s because, in this episode, Hayden Yes brings an original joke about gossip, drama, and small town life, and we spend time workshopping it. As someone who grew up in a small Kentucky town, I know many of the tropes and stereotypes. We have some good laughs. Be sure to check it out AND, before you get worked up, choose to laugh. Then subscribe both here (see the button below) and on YouTube. Thanks for your wonderful support!MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

In the last day-and-a-half, I’ve spent nearly 11 hours on the road. I gave a lecture at a conference in Louisville, Ky, but also did stand-up at the conference. I crushed. So, all the travel has me a bit behind on posting here. I’m glad to start catching up a bit today. Thus, here it is: Episode #42. In this episode of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast, comedian Michael Halcomb interviews comedian Hayden Yes. In Part 1 of this 2-part chat, Hayden Yes, with all her firey and bubbly personality, talks about how she got into comedy. She also shares about how she’s transforming a dormant church in Farmersburg, Indiana, into a theater. The two comedians discuss the challenges of renovation, community reactions, creating spaces for artistic expression, and the intersection of comedy and religion. Be sure to check it out AND subscribe both here and on YouTube. Thanks for your wonderful support!MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Episode #41 has arrived! THIS…is the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast and, in this episode, I continue my chat with Tennessee-based comedian, Garrett McDonald. We kick things off with Garrett bringing an original joke. He tells us its origin story and then we spend some time workshopping and punching it up. From there, we start the clock and make up jokes on the spot and in real time from a bunch of random prompts. Like our first discussion, this one was really fun! So, be sure to check it out AND subscribe below as well as on YouTube. And if you could or would, please share the podcast around. That would be absolutely wonderful. Thanks, friends, for your support!MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Friends, Episode #40 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast is now live! In this episode, I chat with Tennessee-based comedian, Garrett McDonald. We discuss the importance of writing daily, finding your voice, working clean, and more. We also dive into Garrett’s comedy journey, what his wife thinks about it, and his life as a middle school counselor. This was really fun! So, check it out and subscribe on YouTube. And if you could or would, please share the podcast around. That would be awesome. Thanks for your support!MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hiya, Friends! I’m back with Episode #39 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast. This is Part 2 of my interview with Indiana native and comedian, Amanda Hacker. In this episode, Amanda brings a joke about Barbie. We workshop it and try to punch it up. After that, we take on some random prompts and see how many jokes we can make on the spot. As with the first episode, this one was a fun. So, check this out and subscribe on YouTube. And if you could share the podcast, that would be awesome. Thank you so much!MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

It’s been a minute, but I’ve finally got a new episode up for the Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast. That’s right, episode #38 is live. This is Part 1 of my interview with comedian, Amanda Hacker, who is based out of Indiana. In this episode, we talk about laughing through tough times. Amanda grew up in a funeral home and also spent much of her youth in a rest home with her ailing mother. In addition to that, we touch on topics like depression, dieting culture, divorce, how soon is too soon to laugh, and all sorts of other stuff related to comedy. This was a fun and you’ll enjoy watching on YouTube or listening here or on Spotify or iTunes. Also, don’t miss part 2, where Amanda shares a joke, we punch it up, and then also make up lots of jokes on the spot. That’ll drop soon. So, check this out and stay tuned. Oh, and make sure you subscribe to the podcast and share. Thank you!MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

I’ve been a bit too busy to post this past week, but I’m pleased to finally share Episode #37 of the “Messed-Up To Set-Ups” podcast. This episode is Part 5 in a short, 5-part, mini course. In it, I share a simple map for writing your first joke. This is a sweet, simple, step-by-step method for writing story-jokes. Watch/listen.Also, despite the fact that I’m currently in Facebook jail for some reason they’ve yet to tell me (it’s been 1 week!), I still want to encourage you to stop what you’re doing right now and go sign up for FREE “The Joke Writer’s Lab” Facebook Group. It’s a private group with some great folks and FREE resources.To watch the video on YouTube, click HERE. Watch earlier episodes about writing jokes HERE. For more great resources, check out MichaelHalcomb.Live.If you’re interested in jokes and joke writing, sign up for my self-paced, online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab” on Udemy.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe