Episode 5: Honoring a Comedy Legend: Lessons from the Life of Norm Stulz

 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE

In the latest episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Dobie Maxwell and I (Vince Carone) take a break from the usual discussions about the world of comedy to honor a man who left an undeniable mark on the industry—and on us personally: Norm Stulz. Norm was a beloved comedian, a master storyteller, and one of the kindest people you'd ever meet. In this blog, I want to dive a little deeper into what made Norm so special and why this episode is a must-listen for anyone who values humor, connection, and the legacy of a life well-lived.

The Power of Storytelling in Comedy
Comedy often thrives on quick punchlines and fast-paced jokes, but Norm had a gift that set him apart—he could captivate an audience through storytelling. There’s something magical about a great storyteller, and Norm knew exactly how to pull you in, keep you engaged, and deliver a satisfying laugh at just the right moment. It’s not just about the jokes; it’s about the journey he took you on. In a world where stand-up is often about rapid-fire laughs, Norm’s approach was a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the best laughs come from the long setup.

As comedians, we often focus on the next punchline, but Norm showed that there’s value in taking your time. It’s a lesson I’ve taken to heart, and this episode is packed with moments where Dobie and I reflect on what we learned from him. If you’re looking for insights into what makes a joke land through storytelling, or how to create a connection with an audience, this is the episode for you.

Why Likability Is Everything in Comedy
There’s no denying it: Norm was one of the most likable people I’ve ever met. In comedy, having sharp material is crucial, but being likable on stage can often be the key to winning over an audience. Norm had that in spades. From the moment he stepped on stage, audiences were on his side—and that’s something every comedian strives for.

During the podcast, Dobie and I talk about how this likability transcended the stage. Norm’s warmth wasn’t just an act; he genuinely made people feel welcome, whether they were fellow comedians or audience members. That connection is something I strive for in my own comedy, and it’s a reminder of how much personality and presence matter. If you’ve ever wondered why some comics click with crowds while others don’t, Norm’s life is the perfect example of how being real and relatable goes a long way.

Balancing Life and Comedy
In this episode, we also talk about how Norm managed to juggle a career in comedy with a full-time job as a pharmacist and being a family man. That balance is something many comedians struggle with. Comedy can be all-consuming, especially when you’re on the road, but Norm showed us that it’s possible to build a life around it without losing yourself. His ability to keep both feet on the ground while chasing his passion is something I admire deeply.

We don’t often talk about the sacrifices that come with this career—long nights, missed family events, and the constant hustle to make it in the industry. Norm somehow found a way to do it all, and in this episode, we share some stories about how he made it work. Whether you're a comedian or someone trying to balance work and family, there’s a lot to learn from Norm’s approach to life and comedy.

Legacy and Laughter: Why Norm’s Impact Lasts
One of the most touching parts of this episode is reflecting on how Norm’s legacy lives on. Even though he’s no longer with us, his influence is still felt by those who knew him and those who watched him perform. Dobie and I share some of our favorite moments with Norm, from gigs we did together to simple conversations that left a lasting impression.

Comedy isn’t just about making people laugh in the moment; it’s about creating a lasting impact. Norm did that every time he took the stage. His legacy is a reminder that the best comedians are those who not only make people laugh but also make them feel connected, understood, and valued.

Why You Should Listen
If you love comedy, storytelling, or just want to hear about the life of a genuinely great person, this episode is for you. Dobie and I dive deep into what made Norm Stulz such an extraordinary comedian and human being, and we share stories that will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even shed a tear. Norm’s legacy is one of kindness, connection, and laughter, and we hope this episode inspires you as much as he inspired us.

So, if you're looking for an episode that’s equal parts heart and humor, tune in and listen as we celebrate the life of a true comedy legend. You won’t want to miss this one! Don’t forget to visit our website at thefunnypodcast.com for additional content and updates.

Follow us on social media:

Join our email list for updates! Sign up here.

Location: Chicago, IL, USA

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Episode 3: How Do Comedians Survive Life on the Road?

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE Being a comedian means a lot more than telling jokes on stage—it often means surviving wild travel stories that would make most people shudder. In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is , Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell share some of their craziest, most frustrating, and downright hilarious travel mishaps from their years on the road. Buckle up—this one’s a bumpy ride! Misadventures in Time Zones One of Vince’s biggest travel mishaps involved time zones. Driving from Chicago to Indiana, he learned the hard way that parts of Indiana are in the Eastern Time Zone. He thought he would be 30 minutes early to his show—only to realize he was actually 30 minutes late. With no time to spare, Vince raced to the gig at breakneck speed, fishtailing on the highway ramps, and eventually making it just in time to deal with a heckling crowd. Sometimes, the journey can be more chaotic than the show itself. Pro Tip: Always double-check your time zones w
Read more

Episode 6: What Makes a Great Performance?

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE In the latest episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is , Dobie Maxwell and I ( Vince Carone ) and I dive into the elements that make a show memorable. Finding Flow and Fuel: What Makes a Performance Unforgettable? Have you ever sat in an audience and felt like the performer was giving it everything they had? That electric connection doesn’t happen by accident. In this week’s episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Dobie Maxwell and I dig into what makes a performance truly unforgettable and why the best shows are about far more than just talent—they’re about passion, preparation, and pure connection. The Unpredictable Magic of Live Performance There’s something incredible about live performance. You never really know how things will go, and that’s where the magic happens. In this episode, Dobie shares a story about a jazz trio that came together on stage without any rehearsals, somehow creating a mesmerizing, seamless performance. It wa
Read more

Episode 4: What’s Considered Offensive In Comedy?

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE Comedy is subjective, and what one person finds hilarious, another might find offensive. In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is , comedians Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down the complexities of offensive humor in today’s politically charged world. They explore what lines comedians walk, how audiences perceive different types of jokes, and why some material might land well in one show but fall flat in another. The Changing Landscape of What’s Offensive Vince and Dobie discuss how what was once considered funny has evolved over the years. Vince highlights how certain words and topics that were previously acceptable are now seen as offensive, while Dobie reflects on how modern-day comedians are pushing the envelope with edgy content. Pro Tip: Comedy is all about timing and knowing your audience. What might be acceptable in one context might be totally out of bounds in another. Intention vs. Impact One of the biggest takeaways
Read more