Open Mic Comedy Podcast

028 - LA to London in 3 Acts with Tevin Everett

In this episode, we chat with Tevin Everett, a talented writer, director, and comedian. Tevin takes us through his unique journey from the military to the comedy scene in Los Angeles, and now in London. He dives into the differences between American and British comedy, noting the impressive quality of London’s open mic nights.
Tevin doesn’t shy away from sharing his most challenging comedy experience in London, as well as his best moments on stage, like winning the Big Belly Ding Dong competition and performing at The Blackout. He also gives us a sneak peek into his show "Secretly Pissed" and talks about his favourite joke that always gets the audience laughing.
Throughout our conversation, Tevin explains his approach to writing and performing comedy. He reveals how he crafts his jokes by starting with a premise and building them into a three-act story, emphasising the importance of smooth transitions and compelling storytelling. He also shares his insights on the comedy scene in London, the challenges of lengthy shows, and the constant need for more stage time. Plus, Tevin lets us in on his choice of music to kick off a comedy set and his all-time favourite joke.
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Tevin Everett Links:
https://www.instagram.com/tevthewriter/
https://www.instagram.com/secretlypissedcomedy/
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

027 - Laughter in Pink with Kimberly Policella

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Kimberly Policella, a comedian and author, who shares her incredible journey in the world of comedy and writing. Kimberly opens up about how she first ventured into comedy, recounting her favourite moments on stage, the challenges she’s faced, and her memorable appearance on Comedy Central's "Out of Order."
She also delves into her work as an author, her upcoming projects, and her plans for a future show based around her role as "The Trophy Wife." Throughout our conversation, Kimberly emphasises the importance of consistency and progression in creative pursuits.
We explore her creative process, discussing how she balances the art of writing with the craft of performance. Kimberly highlights the crucial role both words and delivery play in making a joke land. She also talks about the significance of her stage persona, including how her appearance and style enhance her act.
Kimberly shares her experiences performing at the Brighton Fringe with Kim Hope as part of their split bill show “Is That Not Normal” and how daily performances there helped her refine her set, plus listen to the details of  the upcoming run at the Edinburgh Fringe festival during August of 2024.
Don't miss this insightful and entertaining conversation with the one and only Kimberly Policella!
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Kimberly Policella Links:
https://www.instagram.com/kimberlypolicella/
 
IsThatNotNormal Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isthatnotnormal
Edinburgh Fringe: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/kimberly-policella-and-kim-hope-is-that-not-normal
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

026 - Grief, Gags and Guffaws with Daniel Cohen

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, join host Marc as he chats it up with the hilarious comedian Daniel Cohen. They dive into the world of comedy, sharing personal stories and discovering the incredible impact laughter can have. Daniel opens up about his journey into comedy, revealing how it became a healing balm after a devastating loss.
Together, they navigate through the wild and wonderful landscape of open mic nights, where comedy knows no bounds and every style finds its place. Daniel spills the beans on his adventures performing comedy beyond the bright lights of London, recounting tales of rowdy hecklers and gigs that tested his mettle. Through it all, he emphasises the importance of staying flexible and gleaning wisdom from the tough gigs.
From nerve-wracking moments to the sheer joy of a successful show, they unpack the rollercoaster ride of performing comedy. And as they wrap up, Daniel shares his standout memories from the stage, including some epic moments at Up the Creek and Beat the Blackout. Plus, he spills the beans on his dream walk-on music for Live at the Apollo and dishes out his favourite joke (hint: it involves the word 'slag').
But the fun doesn't stop there! Marc throws down a challenge: Can Daniel brave using a joke from the infamous Little Book of Sh*t Jokes on stage? Stay tuned to find out!
 
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Daniel Cohen Links:
https://www.instagram.com/dcdoescomedy
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

025 - Making Comedy Count with Tom Dell

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with the hilarious and insightful comedian Tom Dell. They dive deep into Tom's comedic journey, exploring his beginnings in stand-up, the influences that shaped his style, and his most memorable moments on stage. Tom opens up about his creative process, sharing the intricacies of joke writing and the art of storytelling. He highlights the crucial elements of timing and word economy in crafting a perfect set.
The discussion takes an intriguing turn as Marc and Tom dissect the nuances of performing different set lengths—five, seven, and ten minutes. They chat about the unique freedom and storytelling possibilities afforded by longer sets, as well as the challenges of maintaining audience engagement throughout. Tom also gives listeners a sneak peek into his future plans, including his aspirations to perform at the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
As they touch on the dynamics of open mic nights, Marc and Tom emphasise the importance of a diverse lineup to keep the comedy scene vibrant and inclusive. The episode wraps up on a high note with a playful challenge: Tom picks a random joke from a joke book and delivers it on stage, showcasing his spontaneous comedic flair.
Join Marc and Tom for a delightful and insightful conversation that’s sure to entertain and enlighten comedy enthusiasts and aspiring comedians alike.
 
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Tom Dell Links:
https://www.instagram.com/tomdell98
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

024 - Crowds, Comedy and Charity with Gary Walsh

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, Marc sits down with comedian and promoter Gary Walsh for a lively chat. They dive into Gary's journey through the comedy world, reminiscing about his first gig and reflecting on how the comedy scene has evolved over the years. From running comedy gigs to the nitty-gritty of being a comedian, they cover it all. Crowd work, roast battles, and why audience appreciation matters—it's all on the table.
As they gear up for an upcoming comedy competition, they take a deep dive into the inner workings of the comedy circuit, sharing insights into the highs and lows of open mic nights and the crucial role of networking and show promotion. Plus, they explore the unique dynamics of Gong shows and how seasoned acts influence newcomers.
Wrapping up, they swap favorite jokes and delve into the heartwarming side of comedy—its ability to support charitable causes. From championing healthcare workers to rallying behind events like the Clap Back Comedy Final, they highlight the importance of giving back.
But it's not all laughs; they also tackle some serious topics, like the financial hurdles facing working-class comedians, especially in venues like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Yet, amidst the challenges, they remain hopeful, advocating for more opportunities for emerging talents.
And just for kicks, they end with a joke challenge, putting Gary's wit to the test with a joke from a book. Tune in for laughter, insight, and a peek behind the curtain of the comedy world.
 
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Gary Walsh Links:
https://www.instagram.com/gw_comedy
https://www.instagram.com/clap_back_to_reality/
https://www.instagram.com/you_about_comedy/
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
 

023 - Progression, Perseverance and Punchlines with Paul Little

In this episode, Paul Little takes us on a journey through his world of stand-up comedy, starting with his deep-rooted passion for humour and his background in improv. He delves into his role as an MC for the We Are Funny Project, sharing both the trials and triumphs that accompany it. Throughout the conversation, Paul stresses the significance of actively participating as an audience member and the resilience required to thrive in the comedy scene.
He doesn't shy away from discussing the impact of social media on comedy promotion and the necessity of organisation and readiness when tackling open mic nights. Paul and Marc also dive into the nitty-gritty of recording and filming comedy sets, sharing inventive methods like using a suction cup to mount a phone on a wall. They exchange anecdotes about the inevitable bombing moments on stage, highlighting the invaluable lessons learned and the importance of constructive feedback.
As the discussion progresses, they touch upon the nuances of performing at various comedy clubs and the non-negotiable traits of punctuality and professionalism. Paul shares personal anecdotes, including his favourite joke triumphantly delivered at a challenging gig, while stressing the significance of a strong walk-on music.
In the final segment, Paul and Marc underscore the inclusivity of the comedy world, advocating for equal opportunities regardless of experience level. They delve into the vital role of open mic nights in refining comedic prowess and even tackle the daunting task of cracking jokes from "The Little Book of Sh*t Jokes". 
 
NOTE: Please excuse the odd microphone issue.
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Paul Little Links:
https://www.instagram.com/paullittlecomedy
 
We Are Funny Project Links:
https://www.instagram.com/wearefunnyproject/
https://www.wearefunnyproject.com/
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

022 - From the Set to the Stage with Becky Jade

Becky Jade, an actor, now an up and coming comedian taking the open mic scene in her stride, invites us into her world, recounting the hurdles she overcame in transitioning from the acting set to the stand-up comedy stage. Drawing from her creative background, Becky seamlessly melds theatrical flair with comedic wit, a fusion that defines her unique style.
Navigating the comedy circuit wasn't easy, but Becky found solace and encouragement in a comedy course, emphasising the transformative power of community support in fostering budding comedians. Through laughter and vulnerability, she shares her journey of mining personal experiences for comedic gold, illustrating the arduous yet rewarding process of refining jokes both on and off stage.
From the soaring highs of a triumphant performance at Tall Tales and Cocktails to the humbling lows of a challenging crowd at a restaurant gig, Becky's rollercoaster ride through comedy is a testament to the resilience required in this unpredictable industry.
In a candid exchange with Marc, they delve into the intricacies of comedic timing, the art of handling unsolicited advice, and the subtle impact of walk-on music on stage presence. Looking ahead, Becky expresses her desire to infuse her sets with a blend of comedy and drama, a testament to her versatility as a storyteller.
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Becky Jade Links:
https://www.instagram.com/beckyjade____/
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Comedy Night in the Spotlight: Comedy Incorporated

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with Steven Mayne from Comedy Incorporated. They dive into the origins of Comedy Incorporated and its mission to foster a welcoming and friendly environment for both comedians and audiences. They highlight the importance of community and mutual support within the comedy world. Stephen gives us the scoop on their new venue, Off the Cuff, and explains how performers can apply for spots. They stress the value of politeness, support, and gratitude in the comedy community.
Comedy Incorporated hosts its comedy nights in London, conveniently located next to Herne Hill station and near Brixton. The lineup features a diverse range of comedians all across the comedy circuit, the performers are not only hilarious but also great to work with. The event encourages creativity and pushing the boundaries of comedy but underscores the importance of entertaining the audience and continuously improving as a comedian.
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Comedy Incorporated Links:
https://www.instagram.com/comedyincorporated
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

021 - Truss in the Process with Nerine Skinner

In this engaging podcast episode, Nerine Skinner, a seasoned actor and comedian, invites listeners into her world of comedy. She delves into her journey within the comedy circuit, offering insights into the highs and lows of portraying characters and the intricacies of auditioning for the prestigious Britain's Got Talent. With candour, she recounts the nerve-wracking experience of preparing for live semi-finals, shedding light on the immense pressure performers face.
Nerine shares her musings on the comedic potential inherent in political figures, emphasising the delicate balance between stand-up and character performance. Transitioning seamlessly, she reflects on her own comedic evolution, from drawing inspiration from vintage variety acts to embracing the essence of silliness as a comedic tool. Her pivot from music to comedy unfolds as a tale of exploration, encompassing various styles such as stand-up, acting, and impressions.
Amidst discussions on the intersection of comedy and politics, Nerine offers glimpses into her experiences navigating the open mic scene and the challenges of carving out a niche as an alternative comedian. As the conversation shifts to the digital realm, she shares firsthand experiences of leveraging YouTube and other social media platforms. Nerine’s journey takes a notable turn with the unexpected virility of one of her videos, catapulting her into the spotlight and underscoring the platform's influential role in promoting her work.
Joined by Marc, the duo delves into the nuances of social media engagement, from utilising YouTube as a repository for stand-up clips to navigating the diverse landscapes of online commentary. Nerine wraps up the dialogue by sharing personal anecdotes, offering a glimpse into the evolution of her favourite jokes over time. The episode concludes with a lighthearted challenge for Nerine to deliver a joke from a classic joke book on stage, promising laughter and entertainment for audiences old and new alike.
 
 
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Nerine Skinner Links:
https://www.instagram.com/nerineskinner
https://www.tiktok.com/@nerineskinner?lang=en
https://www.youtube.com/@nerineskinner
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

020 - Nursing the Nerves with Chris Ford

Chris Ford takes us on a journey through his comedic endeavours, starting from an unexpected turn during a three-month hiatus due to an injury. Initially wrestling with stage fright, he dipped his toes into the comedy pool with about 10 nerve-wracking gigs before taking a breather. Interestingly, it was his role as an A&E matron that unexpectedly became his confidence booster, helping him conquer his fears under the spotlight.
Joined by his partner Gracie M, Chris delves into the rollercoaster ride of launching their own comedy night dubbed Knock Knock. Despite its successes, he openly share the challenges they've faced in filling seats and gaining traction, shedding light on the uphill battle of promoting events featuring lesser-known comedians.
From gut-busting highs to cringe-worthy lows, Chris lays bare his experiences on stage, recounting both his triumphs and blunders. He delves into the intricacies of being an MC, stressing the importance of mastering this pivotal role. Reflecting on the diverse dynamics of audiences, he imparts the invaluable lessons learned from each gig.
Teaming up with Marc, they dissect the realm of comedy competitions, weighing the significance of making it to the grand finale. Excitement tinged with apprehension fills the air as Chris unveils plans for his upcoming Edinburgh show, a venture brimming with both anticipation and hurdles.
The conversation shifts gears as Chris and Marc explore the raw charm of witnessing comedians unveil their works in progress. From these initial glimpses to the polished final acts, they navigate the journey of refinement and evolution in comedy performances. Bonding over shared experiences of blanking out on stage, they offer insights into navigating such unforeseen hurdles.
As the dialogue draws to a close, the duo light-heartedly mull over the significance of walk-on music for comedians and swap tales of their favourite jokes, wrapping up a candid and insightful exchange.
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Chris Ford Links:
https://www.instagram.com/fordulant
https://www.instagram.com/knocknockcomedy/
 
Open Mic Comedy Podcast
www: https://openmiccomedypod.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/
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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com