Open Mic Comedy Podcast

In this superb episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, Marc sits down with the ever-entertaining Joe Da Costa—a true triple threat in comedy, music, and acting. Joe opens up about his journey through the comedy world, revealing how his musical chops add a twist to his stand-up and sharing stories of the highs and lows that come with live performance. From early stage jitters to finding his voice, Joe recounts the lessons he’s learned on the road, how he chooses topics for his jokes, and how audience reactions keep him humble (and sometimes, hilariously humbled). Throughout the episode, Marc and Joe cover a lot of ground. They dive into the art of writing jokes that work with music, balancing humor with rhythm, and the often-surprising moments that unfold on stage. Joe’s passion for voiceover work, his thoughts on AI’s impact on creative fields, and his quirky adventures in the world of jingles also make for some memorable moments. But it’s not all laughs—Joe offers a candid look at the challenges comedians face in today’s digital world, from handling social media to self-promotion. With a mix of humour, insight, and personal anecdotes, Joe and Marc explore what it really takes to keep audiences engaged and entertained in the ever-evolving world of comedy. ———————— LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Joe Da Costa: https://www.instagram.com/joedacosta_comedy ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Voice Over Segment: John Pape - https://www.johnpape.co.uk/

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with comedian Kristian Allman for a raw, insightful chat about the ups and downs of life on stage. From the tough gig lessons to the thrill of winning over a crowd, Kristian pulls back the curtain on his comedy journey, sharing both the highs of successful sets and the humbling moments that taught him resilience. Together, Marc and Kristian dive into the unique challenges of open mic nights, the pressure of performing for friends and family, and the nuances of crafting a unique comedic voice. They break down the art of joke writing, the emotional rollercoaster of live performances, and the thick skin it takes to succeed in comedy. They also share a few laughs discussing the intensity of gong shows, where only the toughest jokes survive. For aspiring comedians, this episode is packed with advice, from building a network in the comedy world to embracing the highs and lows with a sense of humour. Plus, the episode wraps with a spontaneous, lighthearted challenge, showing the playful side of comedy and the creative spark that keeps these comedians coming back to the stage.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Kristian Allman: https://www.instagram.com/kristian_comedy ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Voice Over Segment: Duncan Hart  www.opengatecomedy.tv

Get ready for a laughter-filled, behind-the-scenes journey into the world of comedy in this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast! Host Marc sits down with the multi-talented comedian and actress Maja Bloom, best known for her roles in Fantastic Beasts. Maja opens up about her evolution from delivering short sets to performing solo shows, and her experiences at the iconic Edinburgh Fringe. She candidly discusses the highs and lows of life on stage, from her best moments to the times when things didn’t go as planned. With a background in film and acting, Maja reflects on how her experiences in those fields shaped her unique comedic style. Along the way, she shares insights into the comedy industry, including the reality of self-doubt, the importance of confidence, and the delicate balance of promoting shows and connecting with audiences. Maja also dives deep into her joke-writing process, revealing how she’s always experimenting, learning, and pushing boundaries in her craft. From hilarious audience reactions to embracing her one-of-a-kind humour, this episode is packed with fun stories and valuable lessons for any aspiring comedian. And don’t miss the playful moment when Maja takes on a spontaneous challenge to weave a fresh joke into her set!   This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who loves comedy, creativity, or just a good laugh. Tune in to hear Maja Bloom’s inspiring and entertaining journey, and discover what it truly takes to thrive in the world of stand-up.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod   Maja Bloom: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/planetmaja Spotlight https://app.spotlight.com/0265-6755-3625 LinkTr: https://linktr.ee/planetmaja ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Voice Over Segment: Duncan Hart - https://www.opengatecomedy.tv

In this lively episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc welcomes back the charismatic comedian Jack Scullion for a deep dive into his unique journey through the world of comedy. Jack opens up about his early beginnings in Spain and how his style has evolved from structured routines to spontaneous, chaotic performances that now blend poetry, storytelling, and audience interaction. Together, they explore the ups and downs of comedy competitions, the importance of community support, and the challenges of breaking into television, including Jack’s recent pilot for a quiz show. Jack also shares valuable insights for aspiring comedians—discussing the significance of preparation, networking, and the delicate balance between creativity and business. From creating horror-inspired t-shirt designs to self-publishing his poetry, Jack emphasises the importance of branding and finding joy in the creative process. If you’re passionate about comedy, curious about the behind-the-scenes grind, or looking for inspiration on how to make your mark, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and plenty of takeaways.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod   Jack Scullion & Your Friend & Mine: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackscullioncomedy https://www.instagram.com/yourfriendandminecomedy https://www.instagram.com/notanotherquiznight/ LinkTr: https://linktr.ee/Yourfriendandmine PoetryPod: https://tr.ee/GdN2S5ez5M Merch: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/YourFriendandMine ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Voice Over Segment: John Pape https://www.johnpape.co.uk

In this podcast episode, Declan recounts his journey into stand-up comedy, describing his early influences and the hurdles he encountered during his first gigs. He recalls the blend of excitement and nerves at his debut performance, and how much he learned from his experiences performing at venues like G and B Comedy. Declan underscores the value of mentorship in the comedy world, explaining how having a mentor has been crucial to his development. He also delves into his distinctive approach to writing jokes, which often emerges from spontaneous moments of inspiration. Throughout the conversation, Declan talks about how important constructive feedback is in refining his skills, along with the crucial role of timing and stage presence. He reflects on key performances that have shaped his growth, illustrating how every gig contributes to a comedian’s evolution. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring comedians, highlighting the importance of finding a supportive community and approaching comedy as an ongoing learning process. LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Declan Evans: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/declanevanscomedy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@declanevans ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Voice Over Segment with John Pape https://www.johnpape.co.uk

In this episode we have comedian Siobhan Dodd in to chat about her wild and wonderful journey through the world of stand-up. From her memorable first gig—where she performed in a bear costume—to juggling comedy with motherhood, Siobhan opens up about the ups and downs of finding her voice in a competitive scene. They dive into the importance of the open mic circuit, how personal life fuels her comedy, and what it really takes to connect with an audience. Siobhan talks candidly about her successes and missteps, the evolution of her writing, and the crucial role that competitions have played in building her confidence. The conversation also explores how the comedy scene has changed since the “Me Too” movement, with both Marc and Siobhan reflecting on the need for a strong, supportive network in comedy. Siobhan shares insights into her performance style, the challenges of creating new material, and her ambitions to make it to TV. They also have a fun chat about the role of costumes on stage and why being present and spontaneous is key to a great performance.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Siobhan Dodd: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unclesiobhan ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode I chat with Welsh comedian Gareth P. Morris to talk about his journey into stand-up, the ups and downs of running comedy nights, and what it’s really like performing in different venues. Gareth shares stories from his time on the open mic circuit, how he engages with audiences, and his approach to crafting jokes. He also reflects on some of his best (and worst) moments on stage, the challenges of being an MC, and what he learned from a festival that didn’t quite go as planned.   This chat dives deep into the world of comedy, especially in Wales, shedding light on the hard work and passion it takes to make it in the industry. Gareth also opens up about a festival crisis and how the comedy community rallied together. He talks about his involvement in fundraising for cancer awareness and shares his experiences from various comedy fringes. For any up-and-coming comedians, Gareth offers some great advice on joke writing and performance, stressing the importance of refining your material and really connecting with your audience.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod   Gareth P Morris: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garethpcomedy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garethpcomedy ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, host Marc welcomes comedian John Pape for a candid conversation about his journey through the world of comedy. From his early days performing at open mic nights to taking the stage at the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival, John shares the highs and lows of comedy. He opens up about the unpredictable nature of comedy and the importance of connecting with an audience, discussing how both success and failure have shaped his approach to stand-up. Throughout the episode, John reflects on the personal growth that comes with honing his craft, emphasising the need for authenticity on stage. He talks about how the search for comfort in his comedic persona has evolved over time and how vital preparation and adaptability are in the unpredictable world of live comedy. The conversation also touches on the continuous journey of comedy, from crafting unique jokes to pushing the boundaries of creative performance. For aspiring comedians, John offers insights and even introduces a fun challenge designed to help them stay engaged with their art. This episode is packed with humour, reflection, and valuable lessons, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the realities of life on the comedy circuit.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod John Pape: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnpapecomedy ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode host Marc sits down with Kevan Hall, a fresh face in stand-up comedy who’s making the leap from a successful corporate career. They dive into how humour plays a big role in training and how supportive the open mic community can be. Kevan talks about his journey into comedy, sharing tips on the mindset it takes, balancing the writing and performing side of things, and how he keeps his material fresh in his mind.   The conversation touches on the ups and downs of chasing a passion like comedy later in life. Marc and Kevan go deep into what it takes to craft a good joke, the importance of memory techniques, and the fine-tuning that goes into timing and delivery. Kevan also opens up about his experiences with comedy workshops and coaching, showing just how valuable structured learning can be in this space. They even explore how AI might help spark creativity!   By the end of the episode, you’ll get a real sense of the joy and challenges that come with being a newcomer in the comedy world—and why the journey of learning never really ends.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Kevan Hall: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevanhallcomedy Finding Your Purpose (Book) : https://www.amazon.co.uk/Find-Your-Purpose-Better-Career/dp/1399812793   Photo by: Nick Gregan  ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, comedian Paul Certi takes us through his journey into comedy, starting from being a youngster, when he first discovered his knack for making people laugh, to finally diving into stand-up in his thirties. He opens up about the challenges he faced early on, like his first gig doing The Blackout at Up The Creek and King Kong, where he learned just how much he still had to figure out. Paul stresses the importance of preparation, constantly refining material, and adapting to new situations. He also talks about how embracing failure and learning from each performance is key to growth in comedy. Paul shares his experiences performing in competitions and doing gigs outside of London and how competitions shouldn’t be taken too seriously, instead encouraging comedians to focus on the long-term journey. He compares the differences between audiences in various cities and countries, noting that crowds outside London often bring a special kind of energy and enthusiasm. Reflecting on his time in the ‘So You Think You’re Funny’ competition, Paul talks about the balance between refining a set and experimenting with new material. Throughout the conversation, Paul and Marc dive deep into what it takes to make it in comedy: persistence, consistency, and the ability to get comfortable with discomfort. They touch on topics like following strong acts, and the tricky art of handling sensitive subjects on stage, all while reading the room.   This episode is packed with personal stories, insights into the comedy world, and a lot of humour, making it a great listen for anyone interested in the art of stand-up.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod   Paul Certi: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulcerti/ https://www.tiktok.com/@paulcerti ————————   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, we sit down with Laura Quinn Goh, a dynamic comedian whose journey spans continents, from her beginnings in Asia to performing in Scotland and London. Laura dives deep into the nuances of the comedy scenes in these diverse locations, highlighting the smaller yet more supportive community she found in Scotland compared to the bustling circuit in London.   Laura also opens up about her upcoming one-woman solo show, ‘You, Me, and Your Correctional Officer.’ This deeply personal performance chronicles her experience of falling in love with a man facing the death sentence in Asia and how that transformative event led her to remake her life in the UK. Laura shares the emotional and creative challenges of writing and performing such an intimate piece, offering insight into how creating a compelling narrative can resonate with audiences.   In addition, Laura reflects on her broader comedy journey. She discusses the unique challenges of being an international comedian, particularly the need to adapt to different cultural references and comedic styles across various regions. Laura shares her writing process, emphasising the importance of honesty and constructive feedback within the comedy community. She also provides valuable advice for newcomers to the industry, stressing the significance of work-in-progress shows as a means to refine material before a final performance.   The conversation touches on the differences between performing in open mics and gong shows, the transition from short to longer sets, and the importance of diversity in comedy lineups. Laura also speaks candidly about the sometimes unwelcoming nature of the comedy circuit and the importance of fostering supportive relationships within the community. As she looks to the future, Laura expresses her ambitions to continue evolving her craft, bringing her show to more festivals, and developing new shows that push the boundaries of comedy.   LINKS:   Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod   Laura QuinnGoh: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraquinngoh/   Solo Show Details: You, Me, and Your Correctional Officer Dates: Friday 4 October 2024 Times: 8.30pm show start, 8.15pm doors open Tickets: https://wicf.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873647000 ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Get ready for a deep dive into the unpredictable world of comedy with Duncan Hart, a seasoned comedian who's seen it all. In this episode, Duncan takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from his early dreams of becoming a scientist and actor to discovering his true calling in comedy. He opens up about the trials and triumphs of his first gigs, the ever-changing comedy scene, and the daunting task of returning to the stage after a hiatus. Duncan doesn't shy away from sharing the tough moments either—like bombing on stage and the toll it took on his confidence. But it's not all doom and gloom; he also recounts the high points, revealing the secret sauce to a successful gig and the importance of an engaged audience. You'll hear about his unique approach to joke writing, where personal experiences meet careful refinement, and get a sneak peek into some of his favourite routines. Beyond stand-up, Duncan sheds light on his diverse career in comedy and television, including  where he worked alongside some of comedy’s greats. As he talks about his future projects, including plans for comedy specials and a production company, Duncan offers invaluable advice to aspiring comedians and even shares a quick laugh from The Little Book of Sh*t Jokes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the gritty, hilarious, and often heartwarming world of comedy, where every gig is a new adventure.   LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod   Duncan Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duncanhartcomedy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunkiedunk/ www: https://www.opengatecomedy.tv/   ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, Reb Day takes us through her comedy journey - from working behind the scenes in production to stepping into the spotlight as a stand-up comedian. She opens up about the highs and lows of her time on stage, and how she got into the industry by building contacts from working in TV and running a You Tube channel. A lady of many talents, 1 million downloads on Spotify and 50k followers across social media platforms. Reb gives us a glimpse into her creative process and how she crafts her jokes - how she pulls on life experiences to entertain her audience. As the conversation unfolds, Reb shares stories from her gigs in London and Hertfordshire and reveals her ambition to take a show to the Edinburgh Fringe in the future. She and Marc dive into their experiences with comedy festivals, discussing the hefty costs associated and the barriers this creates for up-and-coming comedians. They also talk about their shared dreams of doing longer shows and eventually performing on big stages like Live at the Apollo. The episode wraps up with some fun banter about choosing the perfect walk-on music and the joys of telling jokes straight out of a joke book. ———————— LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Reb Day: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebstagram TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reborahdaymond?lang=en You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/c/rebday Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3YUf4BbXYSPM3RNySJaJ9J ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, we dive into the witty world of Mark Rivlin, a master of puns and one-liner jokes. Mark takes us on a delightful journey through his comedy career, starting with his early influences and love for collecting vinyl comedy albums. He shares how his passion for wordplay shaped his comedic style and recounts the story of his first gig—an experience that didn't quite hit the spot but ultimately helped him find his comedic persona. Mark emphasises the invaluable lessons learned from bombing on stage and the camaraderie that thrives among comedians. He gives a shout-out to some rising stars in the industry and delves into his unique approach to crafting jokes, underscoring the significance of audience reaction. The conversation also ventures into the realm of potentially offensive jokes and the varied reactions they provoke. Adding another layer to his multifaceted life, Mark discusses his role as a cricket umpire and his book 'Secret Umps,’ which offers an insightful look into the world of recreational cricket and the challenges umpires face. Listeners will hear about the trials and tribulations of umpiring, dealing with on-field behaviour and abuse, and why Mark prefers the traditional test matches over shorter formats. The episode also touches on monetising comedy writing and the vital importance of supporting fellow comedians. Join us for a fascinating and laughter-filled conversation with Mark Rivlin, where comedy and cricket intersect in the most entertaining ways. ———————— LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Mark Rivlin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rivlinmark Secret Umps Book: https://secretumps.co.uk/ eMail for Bookings: rivlinmark@gmail.com ————————   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with Australian open mic comic Joey Seph for an engaging and candid conversation. They delve into Joey's journey through the comedy world, comparing the scenes in Canberra and Sydney, and the crucial process of discovering one's comedic voice. The discussion covers the intricacies of joke writing, the art of timing and pacing in a set, and the common pitfalls comedians face on stage. Joey and Marc share personal stories about their early jokes, the relentless drive for improvement, and the value of mastering crowd work. They also touch on the challenges of incorporating audio clips into their acts and the importance of self-reliance during performances. Joey opens up about his highlights, such as performing for a comedy idol and making his family laugh, as well as his low points, including technical glitches and failed riffs. They discuss the mixed emotions Joey has about his comedy career and the moments when he considers quitting. Throughout the episode, Marc and Joey reflect on the significance of finding strong openers, handling negative self-criticism, and the ongoing process of honing their craft. They talk about the allure of trying different comedy styles, like character comedy, and the benefits of stepping outside their comfort zones. The conversation wraps up with a fun challenge from the book of Shit Jokes, adding a lighthearted end to an insightful episode.   ———————— Joey Seph Links: https://www.instagram.com/joey_seph_comedy/   Open Mic Comedy Podcast www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/ ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Rebecca Sangster-Kelly (RSK) takes us through her journey in stand-up comedy, sharing how she discovered her unique style and uses humour to tackle taboo topics. She highlights the importance of understanding her audience and pushing boundaries while staying relatable. The conversation delves into the influence of other comedians and the phenomenon of similar jokes emerging in the comedy scene. Rebecca recounts her first gig on Father's Day and opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her comedy career. She underscores the importance of networking and learning from both successful and not-so-successful gigs. Discussing the benefits of writing classes, Rebecca explores the fine line between authenticity and exaggeration in comedy, even sharing her favourite joke about a royals sexual practice. Throughout the discussion, she reflects on her experiences, from finding her comedic voice to developing her stage persona. She offers insights into open mic nights, the use of stage names, and the significance of all-women comedy shows. The episode wraps up with a look at the value of comedy challenges and the need for comedians to continually adapt and evolve. ———————— RSK Links: https://www.instagram.com/rsangsterkelly/ https://linktr.ee/RSKcomedy   Open Mic Comedy Podcast www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/ ————————   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Part 2 of this special episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, I am joined by 3 of the first 4 ever podcast guests: Kim Hope, Hasan Al-Habib and Jim Hooker, with a smattering of Chris Ali from beyond the studio. We get into the question - out of the 4 of us who would MC, open, middle and close each of their own comedy nights. Advice for using social media in the modern day for the benefit of comedy, revealing the best tips we've received whilst on the circuit and much much more…. LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Kim Hope: https://www.instagram.com/thatkimhope Hasan Al-Habib: https://www.instagram.com/amusingarab Jim Hooker: https://www.instagram.com/jimhcomedy   ———————— EDINBURGH TICKET LINKS: Kim Hope [Is That Not Normal]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/kimberly-policella-and-kim-hope-is-that-not-normal Hasan Al-Habib [2 Muslin 2 Furious - Mecca Drift]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/2-muslim-2-furious Jim Hooker [Pitch It Good Podcast Live]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pitch-it-good-live ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this special episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, I am joined by 3 of the first 4 ever podcast guests: Kim Hope, Hasan Al-Habib and Jim Hooker, with a smattering of Chris Ali from beyond the studio. In this episode we discuss the progress each of the guests have made with their own comedy projects and the anticipation of taking their respective shows to the Edinburgh Fringe 2024. As well, as Edinburgh we get into some topics about funny things that have happened over the last 6 months to our guests. We delve into some writing techniques and performance enhancements they've all made. How they see the comedy industry, and just general experience within it. It's also as entertaining as hell, and full of outstanding takeaways from everyone.  This is Part 1.... Part 2 to follow in the coming days if you are watching this on the day of release. ———————— LINKS: Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Kim Hope: https://www.instagram.com/thatkimhope Hasan Al-Habib: https://www.instagram.com/amusingarab Jim Hooker: https://www.instagram.com/jimhcomedy ———————— EDINBURGH TICKET LINKS: Kim Hope [Is That Not Normal]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/kimberly-policella-and-kim-hope-is-that-not-normal Hasan Al-Habib [2 Muslin 2 Furious - Mecca Drift]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/2-muslim-2-furious Jim Hooker [Pitch It Good Podcast Live]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pitch-it-good-live ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com  

In this episode, host Marc sits down with Michael Yanny, the creative force behind Yogie Belle. They delve into Michael's rich background in writing and directing, his passion for animation, and his adventurous leap into stand-up comedy. Michael opens up about his journey, sharing his experiences making award-winning short films and eventually transitioning into the comedy scene. They discuss the critical elements of comedy, such as physicality, storytelling, and the power of silence, all aimed at bringing joy and entertainment to others. Michael reflects on his evolution as a comedian, including overcoming his stage fright and developing his character work. He reveals his favourite jokes and routines, emphasising the importance of taking the audience on a storytelling journey. In the final segment, Michael talks about expanding his repertoire from short sets to hour-long shows, the nuances of live performance, and the thrill of connecting with an audience. He highlights the therapeutic power of laughter and the joy of making people happy. The episode wraps up with a fun challenge: Marc dares Yogie to tell a joke from a  sh*t joke book on stage and record it, promising a light-hearted end to an insightful conversation.   ———————— Yogie Belle Links: https://www.instagram.com/yogie.belle   Just Desserts (Short Film - Amazon Prime): https://rb.gy/y206mp ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, Henry Reilly, co-owner of the Other Side Comedy Team, delves into his personal journey within the comedy world, emphasising the pivotal role of writing and refining comedic material. He shares insights into the essential nature of open mic nights, which serve as a platform for budding comedians to hone their craft, and the supportive community that bolsters performers within the comedy circuit. Henry recounts the intricate process of initiating a comedy night, including the significant challenges encountered in securing a suitable venue. He underscores the value of friendship and collaboration, highlighting how these elements are crucial to thriving in the comedy industry. Throughout the episode, Henry elaborates on the operational aspects of running comedy shows at various locations, shedding light on the logistical hurdles of finding and maintaining these venues. Sharing personal anecdotes, Henry discusses his most memorable moments on stage, both triumphant and disastrous, and provides a glimpse into his experiences at the Brighton Fringe. He offers a detailed account of his joke writing process, balancing the introduction of new material with the perfection of existing bits. In the latter part of the conversation, Henry and Marc dive into the intricacies of crafting effective jokes, refining material, and the crucial feedback loop provided by audience reactions. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about the significance of walk-on music for comedians and concludes with a fun challenge where Henry attempts to tell a joke sourced from a joke book. This comprehensive conversation offers a rich tapestry of insights into the comedic world, reflecting both the challenges and joys of pursuing a career in comedy. ———————— Henry Reilly Links: https://www.instagram.com/henry_reilly/ https://www.instagram.com/theothersidecomedy/   Open Mic Comedy Podcast www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/ ———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com