The Art of Bombing: A Comedy Podcast

In this episode, Dan is joined by Minneapolis-based comedian Ben Katzner, and they discuss actively avoiding each other, how you can get stuck in a “pocket” in a larger scene, and the importance of getting out of that comfort zone. In addition, Dan and Ben talk about the plague of vanishing clubs, allowing overconfidence to get in the way of doing a good show, being able to read the room and positioning yourself right with the audience, (once again) picking the right clothes, and the eternity that is 27 minutes of silence and the loneliness that follows. Additionally, the importance of recording everything and making that part of the routine.Ben KatznerA stand-up comedian and writer, Ben Katzner blends a subversive style, biting observational humor, and skilled storytelling to deliver a one-of-a-kind live show that's equal parts charming, smart, and relatable. Katzner regularly opens for comedian Kelsey Cook and has opened for a variety of performers, including Chad Daniels, Josh Johnson, Zainab Johnson, and Kyle Kinane. Besides performing in clubs and theaters across the country, Katzner has also participated in numerous comedy festivals, including the Limestone Comedy Festival, 10,000 Laughs Comedy Festival, Let's Fest, the Harlem Comedy Festival, and the Raleigh Comedy Festival. In 2025, Ben will be releasing his debut comedy album via Blonde Medicine's label, along with a coinciding comedy special on YouTube. Katzner is also a burgeoning talent in the graphic novel space. His debut graphic novel, "Hello, My Name is Poop," was published by Wonderbound Books in 2021. His second graphic novel, Muddy Waters Too (co-written with legendary rapper Redman), is set to be released in the summer of 2025. When he's not on a stage or behind a keyboard, Ben co-hosts the Troll Hole Podcast with comedian Mike Lester. Equal parts playful and painful, during the fast-paced show, the quick-witted duo of Lester and Katzner invite guests to discuss internet trolls, life in the public eye, and much more.IG: https://www.instagram.com/shaqkatznerSupple Harlot: https://youtu.be/KXf02vKB70k?si=qt56tFpmF8sabxkiBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-comedy-podcast--5788059/support.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

In this Between Bombs: Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry circle back to Ep 315 with Taylor Soderborg for a lively chat about comedy’s secret weapons—likability and trust. They break down how reading the room can turn a good set into a great one, and why sometimes your set isn’t nearly as bad as you thought. With laughs, insights, and a few surprises, this episode is all about finding confidence on stage. Tune in to learn how to win over a crowd and maybe even yourself!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-comedy-podcast--5788059/support.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

Taylor discusses starting as a comedy nomad, the idea that comedy has to balance itself, taking responsibility for the audience (even if the audience is bad and should feel bad), and learning to read the room. She and Dan also discuss weird audiences, ensuring you’re in charge of the room, and building likability and trust so the audience will follow you.Taylor SoderborgTaylor Soderborg is a doctor turned comic. With both an MD and a PhD, she is proof you can go to too much school. Blending education and humor, she uses her science and medical experiences to inspire her comedy. Taylor is passionate about science communication and is the Executive Director of Science Riot, a non-profit science outreach program that turns scientists into engaging speakers and comedians through immersive training in comedy writing and performance.@doctortaycomedyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-comedy-podcast--5788059/support.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

In this Between Bombs: Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry circle back to their conversation with Joe Scrocca from Episode 314! They dig into why solid notes are a comedian’s secret weapon, the value of researching local references to land stronger laughs, and what makes for an effective writing process. It’s a fun deep dive that blends practical comedy tips with plenty of insight for both new and seasoned comics.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-comedy-podcast--5788059/support.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

Dan returns with New Jersey comic Joe Scrocca. They cover everything from biker bars to making sure you do your regional research before a road gig, and ways to put the comedy puzzle together. They also discuss the art of exaggeration while maintaining realism, the value of good notes, and Joe’s whiteboard process.Joe ScroccaJoe started doing comedy on 12/14/2023—no prior experience in entertainment. He woke up one morning in December '23 and was tired of dating crazy women. Joe wanted to do something fun, so why not stand-up comedy? He was 62 at that time and did his first open mic on 12/14/2023 at what turned out to be a biker bar.www.scroccaentertainmentgroup.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-comedy-podcast--5788059/support.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

It’s the season finale, and what better way to wrap it up than with Dan and Larry talking about the comedy nightmare that is the after-prom! Is it a rite of passage or a special torture you should say “no” to? They bring up crowd work, Bill Hicks, Robin Williams, and the importance of The Act before you try improvisation on stage. Also, Larry’s new nickname, Dan’s accomplishment, and some other silliness that these two get sidetracked on. Don’t forget, as a season finale push, the first ten people who leave five stars with an actual review will get a silly sketch from Larry. Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

In this Between Bombs: Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry revisit their chat with the hilarious Jim Tews from Episode 312! They dive into the strange experience of hearing other comics who sound just like you (and how that lights a fire under your feet), the superhuman levels of embarrassment comedians endure on the regular, and how comedy clubs that used to pop off seven nights a week just aren't what they used to be. It's a laugh-filled look at the evolution of comedy and the mental toughness it takes to survive it.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

Jim Tews has spent more than half his life on stage making people laugh. From being inspired by Dave Attell’s “Insomniac” to his first days doing comedy in a strip mall sports bar, Jim knew he had to do it to keep from losing his mind. He and Dan chat about the level of judgment comedians are under and how it would horrify a “normal person,” bigger markets equal higher stakes, and the hell that college gigs can be, especially when pizza is the bigger draw.Jim TewsJim Tews is a comedian, writer, and animator known for his skewed observational humor and creative versatility. Born and raised in Allentown, Pennsylvania, he began his stand-up career while serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, performing in Cleveland, Ohio. After completing his enlistment, he studied film at Cleveland State University and continued honing his comedic voice on stage and online.​In 2011, he moved to New York City to pursue comedy full-time. He gained national attention with his stand-up television debut on NBC's Last Comic Standing and has since appeared on FX, NBC, SeeSo, and TBS. He’s been a part of several prominent comedy festivals, including Just For Laughs Montreal and San Francisco Sketchfest.https://jimtews.com/With Pictures Comedy Special: https://youtu.be/MIrOEshft5g?si=WMeBPb-k1XqKrot_Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

What makes a joke work—and what do you do when it doesn’t? In this episode of the Art of Bombing Between Bombs: Callbacks, Dan and Larry call back episode 311 with Kimberly Koester! They break down joke mechanics, how to craft a stage persona that feels authentic, and why a bombed bit might be the best thing for your growth. Finally, we figure out why Larry is so spicy this week!Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

Kimberly Koester is a comic with a unique perspective—one she works at! She discusses her “Killy Tony Bump,” the Mothership open mic, the importance of forced networking, and how important the book “How to Kill at Comedy” has been to her. She also touches on the comic’s persona, handling a joke that doesn’t land, and the importance of learning joke structure.Kimberly KoesterKimberly’s comedy explores themes of starting over, single parenting, and navigating life’s unexpected turns. With a style that’s both reflective and surprising. Kimberly’s performances are authentic, relatable, and rich with moments that resonate long after the laughter fades. Having performed on the stages of sold-out shows and toured the Midwest, she brings confidence, charm, and a fresh perspective that audiences love.https://kimberlycomedian.com/aboutArt of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

In this episode of the Art of Bombing Between Bombs: Callbacks, Dan and Larry call back episode 310 with Clay Foley! They drop truth bombs (and punchlines) about marketing smarter, not harder. Dan and Larry dive into why quality beats quantity every time—and how to stop wasting time on things that don’t move the needle. Laugh, learn, and level up!Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

Dan sits down with Clay Foley, ex-animal cruelty investigator, current standup comic, and creator of “Comedy to the Rescue,” a charity organization that helps animal shelters across the country raise money via comedy shows. Clay brings up starting comedy “late” in life, realizing there is no time to waste, and carving out your niche.They also discuss letting the good in a show outweigh the bad, the fear of not being memorable, and the importance of the business side of show business. They also touch on finding that ever-important niche, good marketing, quality over quantity, and Clay’s background in a straight edge metal band. Clay FoleyClay Foley is a stand-up comedian and avid animal rescuer. For a decade, he worked as an animal cruelty investigator in Illinois. Today, his Comedy to the Rescue tour spans the country, raising money for companion animal charities.https://www.clayfoley.com https://www.comedytotherescue.orgArt of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

In this episode of the Art of Bombing Between Bombs: Callbacks, Dan and Larry call back episode 309 with New Zealand comedian Taylor Ruddle! They explore the power of leading with curiosity, especially when facing down hecklers, and uncover how finding inspiration outside of stand-up can fuel your funniest material. Get ready for a thoughtful, international twist on comedy wisdom!Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hayden Hamilton GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/6fdac081Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

New Zealand comedian Taylor Ruddle educates Dan on slang terms, the differences between American and New Zealand standup comedy, and maybe why pain pills, booze, and comedy don’t mix! They also have a long conversation about some of their favorite shows to come out of New Zealand, like “What We Do In the Shadows,” “Our Flag Means Death,” and the brilliance that is Taika Waititi. Taylor RuddleTaylor Ruddle is a stand-up comedian from New Zealand & host of the Ruddle Me This! Podcast.https://taylorruddle.carrd.co/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

In this explosive Between Bombs Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry call back episode 308 with Lynn Harris to blow the lid off one of comedy’s most important tools: the performance contract! From locking in payment to nailing down set times and show details, they dive deep into the must-haves every comic should include—because the only surprises on show night should be in your set, not your paycheck.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/ Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/