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

Hey, Friends! Episode #74 of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast is here! In this episode I chat with fellow comedian Travis “T Link” Lincoln, who shares about his journey into comedy and his influential work with homeless veterans. Based in Columbia, South Carolina, his comedic side shines as he talks about his initial hesitation to perform stand-up and his eventual dive into the comedy scene through improv and open mics. During our conversation, T Link emphasizes the importance of persistence in comedy, and gives his #1 piece of advice for young and seasoned comedians alike. We also get into the competitive nature of comedy and the balance between personal ambition and community support within the industry. All that and this is only Part 1!!! Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, 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 this episode, #73 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast, I sit down again with an absolutely hilarious comedian: Lon Kieffer. We take a big dive back into the world of stand-up comedy and explore the art of joke crafting, share stories from the stage, and workshop some new material together. Lon’s jokes and insights are as enlightening as they are entertaining. So, whether you’re a fan of comedy, a seasoned comedian or just starting out, this episode is packed with laughs and valuable lessons. Tune in for a candid conversation that’ll both inspire and amuse.JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hi All. It’s Episode #72 of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Lon Kieffer. This dude…he’s fun. And he’s funny. Lon’s a seasoned comedian and I get to ask him all sorts of questions about his unique journey from nursing to the comedy stage. We dive head-first into the challenges and triumphs of stand-up. We also get into what it means to be authentic in a world that often demands conformity. (Yes, that often happens in the world of stand-up!) Lon opens up about many of his experiences and, perhaps bets of all, he gives insights into and advice for new comedians looking to find their voice. This is a super candid conversation filled with tons of laughs and lots of wisdom. I mean, just watch the first 5 seconds and you’ll see. So, whether you’re a seasoned comic or just starting out, there’s something here for you. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hi Friends! We’re back with Episode #71 of the “Messed-Up to Set-ups” Podcast. Once again, I’m thrilled to have Tim Conniff on. This time, we dive into the art of joke writing. We explore the creative process behind turning everyday observations into laugh-out-loud moments. We discuss everything from wet handshakes to unexpected punchlines. We also share our experiences and insights on what makes a joke truly memorable. Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with humor and inspiration. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hi Friends! In this episode of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast (#70), I sit down with fellow comedian Tim Conniff to explore his fascinating journey, which includes stand-up comedy in both corporate settings and comedy clubs. We get into the challenges and triumphs of working clean, the importance of getting stage time, and how Toastmasters played a pivotal role in his development as a comedian. Whether you’re a seasoned comic or just starting out, Tim’s insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to get into or make their mark in the world of stand-up comedy. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hi Friends, Michael Halcomb here with Episode #69 of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast. I’m thrilled to have comedian Todd Probus back with me. In this episode, we dive into the art of joke writing, share stories from our own experiences, and explore the creative process behind crafting a great punchline. From unexpected breakfast adventures to Disney World memories, we connect the dots between humor and everyday life. And, of course, we make up jokes on the spot in real time and have a lot of fun doing so. Join us for a fun chat with plenty of laughs and, best of all, a peek behind the comedy curtain!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hi Friends! Episode #68 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast is now live. In this episode, I sit down with comedian and pastor Todd Probus. We dive into his fascinating journey of starting stand-up comedy in college, moving to L.A., leaving stand-up, then finding his way back to it later in adulthood. In addition, Todd shares his experiences of performing clean comedy, the challenges of balancing ministry life with stand-up, and the art of clean comedy. But Todd doesn’t just perform, he’s also a comedy producer and gives some insight into what he’s looking for when books comedians. This is a fun conversation filled with lots of insights, tips, and laughter. Tune in!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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 Episode #67 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast, I’m back with the hilarious Oscar P.! In this one, we don’t merely get into the art of joke-making, we actually make jokes, too. From all sorts of spontaneous riffs, to exploring the quirks of Memphis, we share great laughs and touch on some awesome insights into the world of comedy. So yeah, join us as we brainstorm punchlines, roast headlines, and reveal stories behind the jokes. It’s a super candid look at the creative process of comedy. You don’t wanna miss this one!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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 this episode of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast (#66), I sit down with Oscar P, a comedian who…wait for it…has NEVER written a joke. Yes, you read that right. In Part 1 of our chat, Oscar, who’s a Memphis-based comedian, shares his unique journey into the world of stand-up. From venting at the barbershop, where it all started, to facing the toughest crowds in Memphis, his story is as funny as it is inspiring. He talks about his experiences hosting at tough venues, the challenges of performing without written jokes, and the joy of doing what he loves. Join us as we get into the highs and lows of comedy and some of the lessons he’s learned along the way.By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hey, Friends! It’s time for Episode 65 of “The Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast! Once again, I’m thrilled to have Louisville-based comedian Big Jake Hovis back with us, sharing his comedic genius and some hilarious on-the-spot jokes. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on joke writing as Jake brings an original joke and we workshop it. After that, we spend some time making up jokes on the spot from random prompts. From Big Jake’s award-winning humor to his wild story about lobsters, this episode is packed with laughter and insights. Join us and discover the art of crafting punchlines. Tune in!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hi Friends, it’s Episode #64 of “The Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Louisville’s funniest comedian, Big Jake Hovis, to explore his incredible journey from improv to stand-up comedy. We get into his experiences, the benefits of improv, and how he became a four-time winner of Louisville’s Funniest Person. Join us for Part 1 of the discussion here, where you’re bound to get some laughs, insights, and a peek into the world of comedy. Tune in!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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 this episode, which is #63 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast, I team up again with fellow comedian Mike Lukas to explore the magic that happens when comedians collaborate. Mike brings an original joke that we edit and try to punch up, we make jokes together on the spot, and we share insights and techniques that elevate our comedy. Join us as we break down the art of joke writing, experiment with new material, and discover the power of working together to create laughter. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how comedians refine their craft and bring humor to life! Tune in!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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 episode #62 of the “Messed Up the Setups” podcast, I sit down with the multi-talented Mike Lukas. He’s a comedian, author, and improv artist among other things. We dive into his comedy journey, get into the art of joke writing, and discuss the importance of finding your unique comedy lens. Mike shares some killer insights from his books and his experiences on stage. For anyone interested in the art and science of comedy, he’s got some very valuable advice. So, join us for a real and candid discussion about the challenges and triumphs in the world of comedy. Also, stick around for part two, where we’ll make up some jokes together and tap into more of Mike’s comedic wisdom!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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

Hey, Friends! I’m thrilled to share Episode #61 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast with you. In this episode, I get to sit down, once again, with comedian Adam Minnick. In Part 2 of our chat, we dive into the art of joke writing, exploring the genesis and evolution of one of Adam’s original jokes. We also share some laughs as we struggle to create jokes on the spot, and give you a behind-the-scenes look at the comedic process. Tune in and get some laughs. 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

Y’all, it’s Episode #60 of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with comedian Adam Minnick and we dig into his 20-year journey in stand-up comedy. We discuss the challenges of balancing family life with late-night gigs, the value of working clean, and the art of crowd work. Adam shares his experiences from bombing his first open mic to finding his comedic voice, and offers advice for aspiring comedians. Join us for a super candid conversation, some laughs, and get insight into the world of stand-up comedy.Also, if you’re interested in learning to write some jokes or how to get into stand-up comedy, check out 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

Hi, Friends! I’m thrilled to have comedian Brandon Latack back on the “Messed-Up to Set-ups” Podcast. In this episode (#59), we dive deep into the art of joke crafting and storytelling. Brandon shares a hilarious true story about his time on a men’s hockey team and the epic prank his coworkers pulled on him. We break down the layers of comedy, explore the importance of framing, and even throw in some spontaneous joke writing exercises. Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with insights and humor. Tune in and join the fun!By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, 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 Episode #58 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups Podcast, my buddy, fellow podcast host (The Pro-Laugh Podcast), and Minnesota-based comedian Brandon Latack joins me. We get into the art of stand-up comedy, discuss the nuances of joke writing, and the challenges of performing on stage. We also have a candid discussion about Brandon’s comedic journey and whether online comedy classes really help. In addition, we talk about live performances and the importance of trimming the fat in joke writing. Whether you’re a seasoned comedian or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights and laughter so tune in! (You can watch on YouTube HERE.)If you have any interest at all in learning to write some jokes or doing stand-up comedy, after you subscribe below, you should also 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 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