Episode 7: Working With Celebrities - Part 1

 



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In the latest episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Dobie Maxwell and I (Vince Carone) and I share one of the most important lessons we’ve learned over the years is that, at the end of the day, celebrities are people too. It might sound simple, but when fans or even fellow performers get starstruck, it’s easy to forget. We share stories about how approaching famous comedians as equals and keeping things authentic have led to some of our best interactions on the road. Remember: the most respectful way to connect with someone famous is to approach them as a person first, fan second.

The Power of Humility: Billy Gardell’s Generosity

Working with Billy Gardell, the star of Mike & Molly and stand-up veteran, left a lasting impression on both of us. Not only is Billy hilarious on stage, but he’s also one of the kindest, most humble people you’ll meet in the business. In the episode, we talk about how Billy’s generosity and down-to-earth nature redefine what it means to be a “celebrity.” From going out of his way to help younger comedians to ensuring everyone around him feels valued, Billy Gardell has set a high bar for what a big-name comedian can—and should—be.

Staying in Character: Emo Phillips and the Art of Persona

For some comedians, the line between their stage persona and real-life personality blurs completely. Dobie worked with Emo Phillips, a one-of-a-kind comedian known for his eccentric style and unique delivery. Emo takes his character commitment to the next level by staying in character even when the spotlight is off. Imagine Emo Phillips ordering a pizza in full character—hilarious, right? This dedication to his craft was fascinating to witness firsthand and gives a new meaning to “staying in character.”

Respecting Boundaries: When to Approach and When to Step Back

Celebrities deal with constant attention, so knowing when to approach and when to give space is crucial. In this episode, we share our personal “dos and don’ts” for interacting with big names. We’ve learned that reading the room (and the person) goes a long way in making sure encounters are respectful and enjoyable for everyone. Timing, as they say, is everything—even more so when it comes to working with public figures who live life under a magnifying glass.

Connecting with Fans: Small Moments Matter

One theme we revisit in the episode is how small gestures can make a big difference, not just for celebrities, but for us comedians as well. Every fan interaction is a chance to create a meaningful connection, and the same goes for our encounters with big names in comedy. Whether it’s a quick chat after a show or a memorable photo, the little moments often leave the biggest impact.

Key Takeaways from Working with Comedy’s Best

From seasoned veterans like George Carlin to unique personalities like Jon Lovtiz, working with big names in comedy has taught us a lot about professionalism, humility, and the power of authenticity. In this episode, we hope to pass some of those lessons on to you, whether you’re curious about the world of stand-up or just a fan of comedy’s behind-the-scenes moments.

This episode is packed with laughs, lessons, and anecdotes that pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to work with celebrities. Give it a listen if you’re curious about the secrets of the comedy industry and the people who make it so memorable!


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