The comedians paradise

Welcome to The Comedian's Paradise! In this episode, we sit down with the critically acclaimed, award-winning UK stand-up comedian Tom Mayhew (BBC Radio 4’s Benefit Scum, Soho Theatre). Known for his fiercely funny, authentic working-class perspective and hit Edinburgh Fringe solo shows (I, Tom Mayhew). Here is an overview of what we discussed:[01:05] Never Been Called Tantalising & What Do You Need for the Fringe? [05:32]Tom shares a hilarious opening anecdote and looks at why the Edinburgh Fringe remains so brilliant.[01:05] The Fringe: Do What You Want, Not What Everyone Else Is Doing [14:57]A deep dive into making money at the Fringe and why it remains the absolute best place to build an audience.[14:20] The Best Place to Get an Audience [14:42]Why the live festival environment offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with real comedy fans.[15:03] Are You a Club Comic or a Festival Comic & The Cost of the Fringe? [20:30]An honest breakdown of circuit comedy versus solo shows, alongside the rising financial expenses.[15:03] Are You a Club Comic or a Festival Comic? [15:21]The core differences in performance style, joke structure, and material needed for these two distinct worlds.[20:30] Being a Working-Class Comedian [22:43]A raw, authentic conversation about class representation and navigating the modern British creative industry.[26:55] You Can Joke About Anything & There Is No Such Thing as Bad Press [34:08]Tom debates the limits of stand-up and whether negative media attention can actually boost a career.[28:00] Dealing with Bad Press [29:26]How modern comedians navigate public backlash, media criticism, and cancel culture on the UK circuit.[26:55] Is It Funny Because It's Shock? [27:46]An analysis of shock humour and the mechanics behind why taboo subjects trigger laughter.[34:08] Controversy in Comedy [34:58]Where the line is drawn in modern stand-up and how changing audience sensibilities impact comedians.[42:00] Why Alternative Acts Struggle to Make It [43:45]The unique hurdles that quirky, unconventional, and alternative comedy performers face in the mainstream.[43:45] Why Taskmaster Is the Making of Comedians & Why You Need to Watch It [49:21]How the hit TV show transforms comedy careers and why it has become essential viewing.[52:23] Why I Respect Live Comedy Promoters [01:01:00]A backstage look at the hard-working promoters who support grassroots talent and keep British comedy alive.You can find out about Tom on his Linktree at https://linktr.ee/TomMayhew.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #thecomediansparadise#tommayhew #comedypodcast#standup#comedian#edfringe#edinburghfringe#fringe#comedycircuit#alternativecomedy#workingclassartist#creativeindustry#taskmaster#taskmasteruk#comedycontroversy

In this episode, former teacher and comedian Andy Gleeks explains why he left education after 18 years, discussing the intense pressures of the modern profession and his transition into stand-up comedy. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from the UK comedy scene, wild open mic nights, and the realities of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe. The conversation also explores Northern Irish culture, comparing life in Belfast and London, while delving into the roots of Northern Irish humour and how Anglo-Irish relations have evolved over time. Here are the chapters of the episode:[[01:21]] Why I am no longer a teacher after 18 years [[04:22]][[04:26]] What teaching was like 18 years ago and why it isn’t for me [[08:30]][[07:00]] Being asked to do more with less in schools [[08:15]][[12:00]] How I started in comedy and why you shouldn't join a comedy collective [[16:10]][[17:05]] The brilliant Dangerous T and open mic comedy characters [[23:30]][[25:56]] The two ways to play the Edinburgh Fringe Festival [[28:00]][[33:00]] Where the brilliance of Northern Irish humour comes from [[36:08]][[33:20]] Coping mechanisms: How to deal with the trauma [[33:54]][[36:08]] The culture of Northern Ireland compared with London life [[39:00]][[39:30]] The Guildford Four and Maguire Seven: Changing Anglo-Irish relations [[48:29]]If you would like to find out more about Andy Gleeks, you can reach him on Instagram or Tiktok at andygleeks.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #andygleeks #andygleekscomedian #northernirishcomedian #exteacher

How do you build a thriving comedy circuit in the heart of Scotland? In this episode of The Comedians Paradise, we’re joined by five-time Scottish Comedian of the Year finalist, Ross Leslie.As the founder of Good Egg Comedy, Ross has become a key figure in the Scottish "Central Belt" scene. We dive into the "maverick" mindset required to run a family-run comedy collective, the distinct differences between the Glasgow and Edinburgh crowds, and the reality of booking top-tier talent in 2024.Ross shares his journey from stand-up to promoter, explaining how he handles social media trolls, keeps his line-ups fresh, and why a Glasgow funeral is famously more fun than an Edinburgh wedding. Whether you're an aspiring comic or a fan of the Scottish circuit, this is an essential look at the business of being funny.If you would like to know more on Ross, you can go on his Linktree here:https://linktr.ee/rossleslie or you can go on the Good egg comedy linktree at https://linktr.ee/goodeggcomedy.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise.

In this episode of The Comedian’s Paradise, Marvin McCarthy and Jack Wheeler are joined by industry veteran Kate Lennon.As the first employee of UTC Artist Management, Kate helped navigate the careers of household names and worked on some of the biggest shows in the UK, including the historic Black British Takeover at the O2. Now, she’s disrupting the circuit with REPPD —a consultancy designed to give unrepresented comedians the business tools they need to succeed without a traditional agent.We discuss the "unwritten rules" of the UK comedy circuit, the reality of talent management, and how the industry must evolve to support independent creatives.Show Timestamps[[00:00]] My introduction to comedy and why I set up REPPD [[04:36]][[04:36]] What is happening for agents and when I joined UTC [[08:27]][[08:27]] What being an agent is like compared to Estelle from Friends [[18:22]][[21:47]] The impact on comedians' careers that I am most proud of [[27:47]][[27:47]] How my approach to developing acts changed in 2020 [[30:07]][[37:00]] Analysing the audiences of different digital platforms [[39:00]][[39:00]] The moment I wanted to set up Reppd and why I left the agency [[41:44]][[41:44]] Who has contacted me and why my approach is universal [[47:21]][[47:21]] The future of the comedy world and how I want to change things [[54:09]][[54:09]] What not to do as a professional comedian [[56:32]]To know more on Kate Lennon and REPPD ,you can go on https://www.reppd.co.uk/.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #comedybusiness #katelennon #thecomediansparadise #standupcomedy #ukcomedy #talentmanager #reppd #marvinmccarthy #comedyadvice

Join host Marvin McCarthy on The Comedians Paradise for an exclusive sit-down with a true legend of the British comedy circuit—John Marshall, aka Agraman the Human Anagram. As the founder of the iconic Buzz Comedy Club in Manchester, John has spent over 30 years as the ultimate "kingmaker," giving first gigs to some of the biggest names in comedy history. Here is an overview of what we discussed:[[02:19]] How I became a comedy consultant , my journey to setting up Comedy buzz [[08::04]][[08:12]] My pattern for booking shows and Peter kay , foreign comedians [[15:45]][[18:39]] Whats going on in comedy now [[22:48]][[22:48]] My attitude to joke stealing and how comedy has become dog eat dog [[30:44]][[30:44]] My word of advice for comedians and how things have changed, the strange world of comedy [[38:00]]If you would like to know more about Buzz comedy and John Agraman, you can go on their website at https://www.buzzcomedy.co.uk/.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #johnagraman #manchestercomedy #ukstandup #comedyindustry #comedypromoter

In this episode of The Comedian’s Paradise, host Marvin McCarthy sits down with the brilliant Jack McMinn, a standout musical comedian and a true "man of interesting facts". Jack pulls back the curtain on his creative DNA, tracing his early inspirations from the deadpan genius of Flight of the Conchords and the lyrical mastery of Tim Minchin. They dive into the evolution of comedy through the noughties and tens, discussing the unique "weirdness" of being a musical act in a stand-up world and why musical comedy remains such a powerful tool for connection.The conversation takes a deep dive into Jack’s role as an archivist of the craft, exploring his "Whovian" obsession with Doctor Who and the profound influence of The Beatles on his songwriting. To wrap things up, Jack shares one of the most legendary stories in comedy lore: the incredible true tale of how Billy Connolly got discovered. From the wild characters of the circuit to the science of a perfect parody, this episode is a masterclass in the intersection of music, history, and humour.Episode Chapters[[00:00]] My inspiration from Flight of the concords and Tim Minchin [[04:16]][[04:16]] The noughties and tens, what matters in comedy, do I get any weirdness being a musical comedian, why musical comedy helps [[13:07]][[13:07]] Lots of wild people do comedy and restarting comedy multiple times [[19:47]][[34:39]] The story of the Beatles and my love for doctor who [[45:31]][[52:00]] How Billy Connolly got found [[59:00]]If you would like to know more on Jack, follow him on Tiktok and Instagram at jackmcminnpiano. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #musicalcomedy #jackmcminn #thecomediansparadise #musicalcomedian

Join host Marvin McCarthy as he speaks with Jay Saunders, a former Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy turned comedian. Discover how Jay is using Project Comedy to help UK veterans recover from PTSD and transition to civilian life through the power of military humour. Here is an overview of what we discussed:[[00:00]] Why British Military Personnel are World-Class [[04:31]][[05:36]] From Lieutenant Commander to Comedian: Jay’s Journey [[07:00]][[07:00]] Camaraderie vs. Bullying: The Reality of Military ‘Banter’ [[09:36]][[09:36]] Joining the Armed Services: Jay’s Military Career Beginnings [[12:45]][[12:45]] Battling PTSD & Smashing the Edinburgh Fringe with Project Comedy [[17:19]][[17:19]] The Culture Gap: Why UK Veterans Struggle with Compliments [[22:00]][[27:44]] Civilian Etiquette: What NOT to say to Armed Servicemen [[29:00]][[32:34]] Performing for the Military: The Do’s and Don’ts of Service Audiences [[36:00]][[36:45]] Stolen Valour & Walter Mittys: The Truth About the SAS [[40:22]][[42:56]] The Cultural Divide: British vs. American Armed Forces [[48:10]][[48:10]] The Perfect Match: Why Military Life and Comedy Work Together [[51:26]]If you would like to find about project comedy you can go on their website at https://projectcomedy.co.uk/, to find out more on Jay, you can go on his tiktok at comicjsaunders. In addition, if you would like to know about the parent charity of project comedy, Project trecce, go on https://www.projectrecce.org/.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #projectcomedy #royalnavy #veterans #ptsd #britishmilitary #militaryhumour #thecomediansparadise #jaysaunders #veteranmentalhealth #edinburghfringe #armedforces #edinburghfestival

The Comedian’s Paradise is the interview podcast giving you the inside scoop on global comedy scenes and the mavericks who define them. In this episode, host Marvin McCarthy sits down with the legendary physical comedian Michel Courtemanche. Known as the "Human Cartoon", Michel reveals why he walked away from international fame to pursue his true passion for directing.Here is an overview of what we discussed:[[01:00]] My journey to being a physical comedian and how I eventually transitioned to my passion [[08:40]][[13:00]] My process for refining and creating bits: Building characters, placing them in situations, and immersing myself in that world [[21:43]][[25:32]] What is "the wave"? [[30:28]][[31:00]] What makes Jim Carrey and Robin Williams such great performers, and why it is tough to film physical comedy [[42:00]][[43:00]] Analysing why Karl Porter's bit is so effective [[46:00]][[48:11]] What you need to be a successful comedian [[50:00]][[50:00]] Teaching clown workshops in Italy [[52:39]][[52:45]] Why I left physical comedy and what I learned from teaching [[58:43]][[58:43]] Why my attitude towards others using my bits differs from how stand-ups respond [[01:02:50]][[01:11:00]] Why I teach movement in the evening [[01:13:00]]Here are some of Michels famous numbers, the drummer:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEHt49wA5zA, the samurai:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA3NtiS7Hdw and the weightlifter:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lguRWs8h2Zw.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #michelcourtemarche #physicalcomedian #visualcomedian

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop on what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Susan Nickson, the creator of the legendary British sitcom Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, joins The Comedian’s Paradise to share her journey of writing a hit show at just 19 years old. Here is an overview of what we discussed:[[00:00]] Accents and finding love: Regional identity and chemistry [[06:04]][[06:04]] Starting Two Pints: The origin of the BBC cult classic [[07:52]][[07:52]] Asians ageing well: Cultural insights and heritage [[08:57]][[09:25]] Why Two Pints succeeded: Casting secrets and Runcorn nostalgia [[18:10]][[18:11]] Local backlash vs. comfort TV: The Runcorn response [[23:09]][[25:20]] Why sitcoms aren’t being produced: The Mrs. Brown’s Boys effect [[28:22]][[28:22]] Writing Two Pints characters: The scriptwriting thought process [[35:00]][[32:00]] Creative collaboration: Working with different writing styles [[35:00]][[38:25]] Writers' room: Inside the professional comedy engine [[41:03]][[41:03]] British comedy legends: Why Only Fools and Horses works [[45:16]][[47:42]] The Two Pints musicals: How the special episodes happened [[48:58]][[51:13]] Actors vs. Characters: Real life vs. on-screen personas [[54:36]][[52:53]] Creating Louise: Developing a brilliant sitcom character [[54:36]][[54:51]] Writer-actor synergy: Building vital industry relationships [[56:23]][[57:11]] Success and risk: Why starting young is a creative advantage [[01:03:17]][[01:01:00]] Multi-platform content: Strategies for modern creators [[01:03:17]][[01:03:17]] Ignoring the critics: Dealing with hate and reviews [[01:08:40]][[01:05:25]] Why I don’t believe in critics: Maintaining creative vision [[01:07:00]][[01:08:40]] Career reflections: What my ten-year-old self would think [[01:12:00]][[01:12:34]] Is Two Pints coming back: Ownership and revival news [[01:16:44]]If you would like to know more about Susan, she is running a play at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre, here is the link: www.thelionandunicorntheatre.com. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #thecomediansparadise #thetwopintspodcast #twopintsoflargerandapacketofcrisps #interviewingcomedians #britishsitcom #britishcomedy

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Join hosts Marvin McCarthy and Jack Wheeler as they interview Donatas Kveselys, the 6ft 7in Lithuanian comedian making waves in Sweden, the european circuit, Japan and conquering all UK gong shows. Based in Gothenburg, Sweden, the "Lithuanian Giant" has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting rising stars in stand-up comedy. Here is an overview of what we discussed:[[01:08]] The London Comedy Scene vs Everywhere ElseHow Donatas became a comedian, the success of Victor Patrascan, and the unique pressure of London gong shows. Why the London circuit is so overcrowded compared to the rest of the world. [[08:16]][[08:26]] Freedom to Fail: Europe vs The UKComparing the supportive atmosphere of the European comedy scene to the high-stakes, "no mistakes" culture of the UK. [[10:56]][[25:32]] The Truth About Bringer ShowsNavigating the controversial UK bringer show model and its impact on new acts. [[29:40]][[26:50]] Is All Stage Time Good Stage Time?Analysing whether simply being on stage is always beneficial for your comedy craft. [[28:10]][[28:00]] The London Grind & Material FatigueWhy London comedians repeat their sets until they are tired of their own material. [[31:00]][[32:16]] The Challenges of Hosting & MCingWhy hosting is a massive challenge and how it fundamentally changes a comedian's skillset. [[37:33]][[33:39]] Crowd Work Spotlight: Siobhan DoddDiscussing the art of interaction and the great crowd work of Siobhan Dodd. [[37:33]][[37:33]] Gothenburg vs Austin, TexasWhat makes the Swedish comedy scene so strong when compared to international hubs like Austin. [[40:27]][[40:27]] Essential Eastern European ComediansThe top comics from Eastern Europe that you should be following right now. [[44:13]][[47:12]] The Financial Cost of Comedy & Japan ToursHeadlining in Japan and the reality of the financial investment required to be a professional comic. [[50:12]][[53:10]] Changing the Game & Shout-outsHighlighting the people currently shaking up the industry and deserving recognition. [[01:01:48]][[54:40]] What Comedy Doesn't Need Right NowA critique of current industry trends and what we should move away from. [[57:29]]If you would like to know more on Jack Wheeler you can reach him on Instagram at pirate2908 and Facebook at Jack Wheeler, if you would like to know more on Donatas, you can reach on him on his Instagram at donataskveselys and his website at https://www.donataskveselys.com/.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #swedishstandup #lithuaniancomedian #standupcomedian

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Our guest today is Simon Rakoff, Simon Rakoff is a veteran Canadian stand-up comedian with a career spanning over 40 years. Known for his sharp wit, observational humour, and storytelling, Simon has performed across Canada, the USA, and the UK, earning acclaim at major comedy festivals such as Just For Laughs, Halifax Ha!, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. Here is an overview of what we discussed:[[00:00]] A brief overview of Canadian comedy, including insights into working with different comedy promoters. [[10:16]][[10:16]] Keeping my skills sharp and how Canadian comedy differs from American comedy; legalising cannabis; should drugs be legalised? [[21:04]][[21:04]] The importance of knowing French; comparisons between Toronto and Montreal; how Toronto is perceived across Canada. [[24:17]][[24:35]] Adapting my stand-up set for different audiences. [[27:27]][[27:27]] Many talented comedians travel from Canada to perform in the USA and UK; how Canadian humour stands apart. [[31:25]][[52:37]] The “woke versus edge-lords” debate in comedy; insights from Anthony Jeselnik. [[55:16]][[56:25]] Navigating the line between true comedians and aspiring performers.[[57:45]][[58:00]] How many real comics are there and how many wannabe comics; people who aren’t original. [[01:03:00]][[01:12:00]] – I don’t have enough time for people I care about, never mind those I don’t. [[01:16:24]]To learn more about Simon, you can listen to his album Surrounded by Idiots on Spotify at https://shorturl.at/MnAqu or visit his official website at https://www.simonrakoff.com/.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian #canadiancomedy

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We talk to Andy Huggins, a veteran stand-up comedian and "King of One-Liners". A beloved figure in the comedy world for over 45 years, he gained national recognition on Season 13 of America's Got Talent (AGT), where he surprised judges by revealing he started his career alongside Howie Mandel decades ago. Huggins' timeless humor and unique perspective on aging have made his performances with Don't Tell Comedy go viral, captivating millions across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. A genuine Houston comedy icon, Huggins was one of the original Texas Outlaw Comics in the 1980s, alongside legends like Bill Hicks and Sam Kinison. He is known for his deadpan delivery and sharp, relatable jokes about daily life, naps, and growing older, proving that laughter truly is a timeless art form. Huggins recently released his first full-length special at age 73, available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV and Prime Video. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[00:41]] How has Don’t tell comedy helped me? [[02:35]] [[06:49]] What do I need to perform my best? [[13:09 ]] [[13:09]] Do I believe in cancel culture and is comedy in good shape?[[17:31]][[18:07]] Get so good they can’t reject you and why I don’t do cruises. [[27:40]] [[27:40]] How financial freedom get rids of crap gigs, the relationship between being a performer and how being a single man helps him. [[33:56]]If you would like to know more on Andy, you can go to his Linktree at https://linktr.ee/andyhuggins. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #standupcomedian #donttellcomedy #americasgottalent

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In todays episode we talk about two ladies Alice Frick and Sophie Quirk, two individuals who are seeking to make the UK comedy scene are much fairer and safer place for comedians:[[01:07]] Brief intro on our main guests [[07:09]][[07:09]] Comedians are very divided and standup isn’t very organised, its good, but you may not get paid [[11:22]][[13:32]] How to make acts feel assured [[20:34]][[39:12 ]] False accusations and other crimes [[47:42]][[50:44]] Comedy has every walk of life, but everything is about respect [[56:13]][[01:04:00]] The purpose of streaming platforms [[01:09:00]]If you would like to know more about Alice you can find out about her safety first podcast here:https://podcasts.apple.com/es/podcast/safety-first-comediennes-greenroomtalk/id1766739204, https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anti-Self-Help-Book-Alice-Frick/dp/1399914499, her website is https://laughinglabia.weebly.com/. If you would like to know more on how Sophie and Alice are looking to make comedy safer, look on https://linktr.ee/SaferBackstage.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian