Episode 1: How We Got Started in Comedy!

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How to Be a Comedian: Lessons from the Pros

Are you curious about stand-up comedy, storytelling, or improving your speaking skills? You're in the right place! In our new podcast Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, comedians Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dive deep into the craft of comedy, sharing tips and hilarious stories from their decades of experience. Whether you're just starting out or curious about how to add humor to your presentations, our podcast has something for everyone.

Episode 1: The Journey Begins

In our first episode, we talk about the journey of becoming a comedian. Vince and Dobie both started at open mics, where awkward silences were common and every laugh felt like a little victory. Dobie reflects on his early experiences performing for small crowds in Milwaukee, while Vince shares his story of venturing into comedy as a teenager inspired by shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?

Comedy is tough, but one thing we emphasize is the importance of just getting started. If you wait for the perfect moment or the perfect joke, you'll never make it to the stage. Vince's motto? "Launch it at 40%." Your first time on stage won’t be perfect, but that’s part of the process.

Pro Tip: Every comedian bombs! The key is learning from it and coming back stronger.

What to Expect as a Beginner

Starting out in comedy isn’t just about having a few jokes in your back pocket. It's about learning how to captivate an audience, how to deal with the unexpected (like hecklers), and how to structure your performance. Vince and Dobie break down the difference between improvisation and stand-up, sharing how each skill set contributes to your growth as a performer.

When Vince started out, he wasn’t just aiming for laughs—he was studying the craft. Dobie emphasizes that you don’t need to be perfect to get started; you just need to start somewhere.

Tips for Aspiring Comedians and Speakers

You might be reading this because you're aiming to be the next Netflix stand-up star, OR maybe you want to add some humor to your next presentation or corporate speech. We’ve got you covered! In this episode, we discuss the importance of timing, surprise, and relatability when making your audience laugh.

Pro Tip: The pressure to be funny in a corporate setting is far less intense than at a comedy club. The goal is engagement, not just punchlines. You don’t need to be the funniest person in the room—just relatable!

From Stage Fright to Stage Presence

Everyone has stage fright at some point, whether you're a first-time comic or a seasoned speaker. Dobie shares the secret to overcoming the fear of bombing: audiences forget quicker than you think! Even if your joke falls flat, the audience moves on. Keep going, stay present, and focus on your next punchline.

For corporate speakers looking to add some humor to their presentations, we suggest experimenting with funny anecdotes or unexpected twists. Start small—maybe with a light joke at the beginning to break the ice—and build from there.

Pro Tip: In a corporate setting, one good laugh every couple of minutes is a win! Don’t aim for perfection—just be authentic and the laughs will come.

Tune In and Learn More!

Catch more insights, hilarious stories, and professional advice by listening to Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is. We're here to help you sharpen your humor, whether you’re aiming for the comedy stage or just want to add a little more personality to your presentations.

Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform here, and don't forget to check out our website at thefunnypodcast.com.

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Location: Chicago, IL, USA

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