The Die Laughing Podcast: Recent Episodes
Morty Stein
On the latest episode, we chat with comedian, producer and morning drive radio host Roman Guzman. We talk about growing up in San Jose and his move to the Central Valley, we talk about our families and family life, his start in radio, how a chance meeting in a Wal Mart changed his life forever. working morning drive radio, being recognized for his voice, doing voice over work, interviewing musicians, satellite radio and the future of terrestrial radio, his fascination with the Prog Rock band YES, his start in comedy and producing comedy shows in the 209.
On this weeks episode, we chat with comedian Stephen B. We talk about California fully re-opening on June 15th, Skip talks about her BMX racing career, why he uses the initial B in his name, Skip and Stephen bond over theology and church work, how the musical "Godspell" became pivotal in his life, his start in stand up comedy in the SF Bay Area, being labeled a difficult comedian, the Bay Area comedy scene in the 80's, placing 3rd in the SF comedy competition, working with "Chicago" Steve Barkley and their long friendship, getting into corporate comedy, Morty shares a ghost story from his day job, and we end with Stephen talking about his upcoming Dry Bar Comedy special.
On this weeks episode, Morty and Skip have a great conversation with Actor and Comedian Jack Gallagher. We talk about people thinking he is the "other" Gallagher, growing up in Boston and moving to Sacramento, Starting comedy in Boston, being a road comedian, his friendship with Steven Wright, working the road with Jeff Garlin, opening for top musical acts, some of his favorite venues to perform in, his love of Sacramento and the B street theater, performing on the HBO series "Curb your Enthusiasm", the audition process, his first day on set, how hard performing stand up really is, his 8 critically acclaimed one man shows, why he decided to do these shows, his favorite ones and Morty gives his favorites as well, how long it takes to write and develop the shows and rehearsing and performing these one man shows.
The the latest episode of the Podcast, we chat with NY comedian Eddie Brill. We talk about the Navy SEALs, some of the awards he has won as a comedian, performing at Carnegie Hall, his start in comedy, working with Colin Quinn and Adam Sandler when they were first starting out, performing comedy overseas, performing for different cultures, the truth being the foundation of comedy, the NY comedy scene today, working on The Late Show with David Letterman, how he got the gig, being the audience warm up comedian, his favorite guests on the show, booking talent, what he looks for in a comedian, advice for new comedians and we end by chatting about the future of comedy.
On this episode, Morty and Skip chat with Las Vegas comedian Myles Weber. We chat about his Dry bar Comedy special, how he prepared in advance for filming, choosing words wisely, Submitting material for Dry Bar, Mental Health issues in the entertainment industry, his start in comedy, doing comedy in San Francisco and Sacramento, the return of comedy in unique rooms, supporting comedians when they bomb, his move to Las Vegas, getting involved in the Las Vegas comedy scene, competing and winning the 2015 San Francisco International Comedy Competition and being branded as a "crowd work" comic.
On this episode, we chat with "Survivor" contestant and former Sacramento King Scot Pollard. We talk about his unique choice of hair styles over the years, settling down with his family in Carmel, Indiana, starting a Real Estate firm, and Skip joins us and she and Scot geek out about racing and all things Indiana. Scot also talks to us about working with his wife, going to high school in San Diego and living with the Walton family, being traded to the Pacers without his knowledge, Being traded once again and becoming a Sacramento King, who was the toughest player to guard, and preparing to play against some of the greatest players ever. Scot also tells us who he believes is the GOAT, the "Golden Era" of the Sacramento Kings, competing on season 32 of Survivor and we end with Scot reliving the now infamous "Malice in the Palace."
On this weeks episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we sit and talk with comedian Sandra Risser. On this episode we chat about some the different things Skip has done in her life, and then we talk with Sandra about Growing up in Iowa, Starting stand up comedy at the young age of 61 in the SF Bay Area, her time as a competitive body builder, attending the San Francisco Comedy College, getting passed at the SF Punchline, Hecklers, comedy competitions and her recent move to Arizona.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we welcome LA Comedian Kellen Erskine. We talk about starting comedy in the Bay Area, his move to LA, performing on Conan and Jimmy Kimmel, being on the tv series “Inside Jokes” on Amazon, performing on the New Faces show at JFL, his dry bar comedy special and much more.
On this weeks episode, we are joined by our special co-host, Mrs. Morty, as we welcome our guests Drew and Aurora Shafer. We talk about celebrating 1 year of marriage during a global pandemic, Drew firing an employee right before he leaves for his honeymoon, getting married 2 weeks before the shutdown, honeymooning in Europe at the beginning of the COVID crisis, comedy shows starting up again, having all their comedy shows cancelled, doing ZOOM shows and writing jokes, performing in LA. And also they play a newlywed edition of Rapid Fire and also discuss social media.
On the special episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, our guest went M.I.A. so we decided to catch up on our lives. We talk about the beginning of the Pandemic, how our work has changed because if it, we discuss comedy, ZOOM shows, puppies and Morty even talks a bit more about his health issues. It was a fun episode and we hope you enjoy it too.
On this episode, Skip and Morty sit down and chat with Americas Got Talent finalist, Ryan Niemiller. We talk about growing up in Indiana, his move to LA to pursue stand up, getting started in stand up, his pro wrestling passion, training to become a pro wrestler, his comedy career before AGT, performing on the show, getting bumped right before his audition, material for the show, being in the "Dunken Save", his relationship with some of the other contestants, his podcast and he also gives a shout out to a local Sacramento comedy club.
As we make our return to the podcast stage, we welcome comedian Tom Cotter. On this episode we chat about the Pandemic in New York, performing on ZOOM shows, his start in comedy, marrying a comedian, his time on Americas Got Talent, returning to the AGT stage for AGT the Champions and getting an "X" from Simon Cowell, being on Last Comic Standing, the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival and performing with Joan Rivers.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, Skip and Morty chat with stand up comedian Benton Harshaw. We talk about growing up in Kentucky and moving out to California, getting in to comedy, writing, performing comedy, the local comedy scene, podcasts and working at a thrift store. Plus much more, so take a listen.
On this episode of the podcast "Die Laughing", we start out by talking with Skip about her trip to the Sacramento Zoo and her month long birthday celebration. And then we welcome our guest Amy Estes and chat about growing up in Rocklin, CA., her start in comedy, taking a comedy class, her writing, video and audio recording of sets and the instant feedback from video, writing scripts and freelance writing, comedy festivals, performing comedy in LA and San Francisco and being a comedian in the LGBTQ community.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we sit and chat with stand up comedian and math wiz, Sam Hochhalter. We start off with Morty explaining the difference between doing research on guests vs internet stalking, and then we talk about how Skip and Morty first met, Skip talks about Jesus' virginity, and then we talk with Sam about growing up in North Dakota and going to school in Montana, his move to Sacramento, how he got his start in stand up comedy, some of his comedy influences, going to open mics, performing on a roast battle show, hosting open mics and a recent incident that was caught on video and Sam and Morty discuss their love of Triathlons.
On this weeks episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we have a guest co-host, Standup comedian Jacqui Pirl and our guest is comedian and cigar afficianado "Chicago" Steve Barkley. In the episode, we talk about our pet peeves, comedy writing, his start in standup comedy, doing standup in Monterey and San francisco during the height of the standup boom of the 70's and 80's, political correctness today compared to the last few decades, comedians going for "shock value", performing and touring with A-list celebrities and who were great to work with and who were not so great. We also talk about his participation on the 1 degree of separation show, falconry and Jacqui's hi-tech calendar on her phone.
A new year means a new episode of The Die Laughing Podcast and on this episode we have stand up comedian, magician, ventriloquist and creator of the "1 degree of separation" comedy show Brad Bonar. We start off the episode with Skip and Brad geeking out over cars and Brad tells a story about how he got his Thunderbird car because of a murder/suicide. He also talks about doing magic, getting started in stand up comedy, doing corporate events and how to plan the perfect corporate event. He also talks about being a ventriloquist, being a part of "The Secret 7" magic group, his 1 Dgreee of separation show and how it started, why he started it and its powerful impact. We also talk about his Drybar comedy special and having a viral video from that special.
www.1degreeofseparation.life
On this weeks episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we talk with the 2019 Improvisor of the year, Gilbert Gonzalez. We talk about how and why he got into doing Improv, the many different forms of Improv, getting voted Improvisor of the year and also talk about the local Improv scene. Then, Morty and Skip talk about 2019 and take a look back on some of the highlights of the past year and some of the plans they have for 2020. Also, Morty is asked if death has a busy season. You may be surprised by his answer.
On this new episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we are honored to sit and chat with comedian Aurora Singh who visits us after her 3 1/2 month visit to Los Angeles. We talk about her move to LA and why she decided to go, meeting one of her idols at a comedy show, the open mic potluck at The Comedy Store, how she got involved in the LA comedy scene, the LA open mic scene and also about dating and getting engaged to another comedian. This was a very fun episode and I am sure you will enjoy this podcast.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we are joined by stand up comedian and roller derby star, Kelley Nicole. We talk about her start in stand up, doing improv, stand up comedy classes, doing roller derby, how roller derby participants get their names and we also talk about her recent wedding and her upcoming move to Cincinnati.
On this new episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, Morty and Skip sit and chat with local stand up comedian Jessica Roberts. We talk about growing up in the foster care system, her start in stand up comedy, being a certified Chocolatier, and discusss that fateful day where she lost everything in the Campfire in Paradise, CA. She also shares with us about how a famous comedian reached out and helped her and she also talks about an early Holiday present she received through a local radio station and much more.
On the latest episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, your hosts Morty Stein and Skip Bacon chat with stand up comedian and the host of the Invisible Disabilities show, Amber Whitford. During the episode, they first introduce Morty to Door Dash and order dinner and then they discuss with Amber her upbringing and move to Sacramento, working in the corrections field and working in a state prison, her start in comedy, her involvement with the Invisible Disabilites comedy show and so much more. Comment or like this episode and tell us what you think.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, your hosts Morty Stein and Skip Bacon sit down and chat with stand up comedian Elisia Gonzales. We talk about living and growing up in Yakima, WA, moving to Sacramento, getting started in standup comedy, her first performance and first booked show at a venue where she used to frequent, and doing improv. We also talk about being a comedian in the LGBTQ community, opportunites for comedians in that community and also talk about radio and it's future. Lots of other topics we dive in to so take a listen and let us know in the comments what you think of this fun episode.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, your hosts Morty Stein and Skip Bacon talk with producer and stand up comedian Marcus Mangham. We talk about growing up in North Carolina and his friendship with a legendary Sacramento King, moving to Sacramento, his start in comedy, and his very first open mic. We even hear about how Skip got on tv and had players from the Indianapolis Colts sign her bra and she even talks about her day where she got yelled at and cussed out by a nun. It was a real fun episode and I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we had fun recording it.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast your hosts Morty Stein and Skip Bacon talk with comedian Drew Shafer. We talk about living in Reno, Performing on a show with almost all white people, teaching high scholl geometry, drinking on the job, his start in standup comedy, going to his very first open mic and finding out that it was a comedy competition, roast battles and so much more.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we welcome our guest co-host, Skip Bacon who sits with Morty and our special guest Braden Murphy. We talk about growing up in Sacramento and Folsom, how an unfortunate event led to his Cerebral Palsy, his start in comedy, being a wheelchair comedian and he even mentions who he feels is the greatest comedian (Hint, it's a local comedian) We also talk about how he and his wife not only adopted 2 boys but also becoming biological parents soon after the adoption became final.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we talk with comedian Maryam Moosavi. We discuss her move to Sacramento, schooling, her upbringing in a Muslim family and her start in stand up comedy. We also talk about open mics, comedy festivals, competitions and so much more.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, Morty sits down and has a fun chat with musician, producer, podcaster and stand up comedian Cory Barringer. We talk about his upbringing in Lincoln, CA, doing theater and music in Jr. High and High school, starting a band, his start in stand up comedy, being in both the local music and comedy scene in Sacramento and also talk about getting engaged to another local comedian and much, much more!
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, Morty sits down with comedian Ed Mena. We talk about being born in Puerto Rico, moving to growing up in New York, farming in the Mid-West and his move to Asheville, North Carolina where he got his start in stand up comedy. We also talk about his move to Sacramento, the local comedy scene, going to and hosting an open mic, social media for comedians, puns, his upcoming roast battle and so much more.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, Host Morty Stein actually sits in the guest chair and show producer Mrs. Morty takes over as host. We discuss how Morty got into the Deathcare business, his day job running a Mortuary, how he got in to stand up comedy, producing shows and so much more. And of course we have to find out who is on HIS Mt. Rushmore of comedy.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we talk with magician, co-host of the open mic at Blacktop Comedy and stand up comedian Roman Spinale. We discusss such topics as growing up as an only child, going to UC Davis, being a part of a stand up comedy club on campus, his beginnings of magic, comedy and much more. We also go in depth on his love of music and especially Huey Lewis and The News.
On this episode of the Die Laughing Podcast, Morty sits down with improvisor, musician and stand up comedian, Johnny Casino. We discuss growing up in Boston, his start in radio, moving to California, pursuing a music career, his comedy journey, open mics and so much more. And of course, we had to talk about his name. Is it really his name? Take a listen and find out for yourself.
On the newest episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, your host, Morty Stein, sits down and chats with comedian and host of the open mic at Nicholsons Music Cafe, Chad Bogard. They talk about many different subjects including moving to California, how he met his wife of 23 years, his unique day job and his love of comedy movie quotes. And we even put him to the test and see how much he really knows. Plus, we talk about his comedy, being a "Church Comic", open mics, the local comedy scene, writing jokes and his love of playing the bass guitar.
On the latest episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, Morty sits down with comedian, producer, writer and co-founder of the Verbal Insult League, Al Shuman. We talk about many different subjects including education, getting into UC Berkeley, his degree in Rhetoric and Philosophy, different ancient philosophers and how his education and corporate job helps in his comedy achievements. We also dive deep into his comedy and how he got his start, roast battles, The Verbal Insult League, hecklers and so much more.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we welcome comedian Joey C! We discuss various subjects such as going to Chico State to study radio broadcasting, working in local radio stations, and his thoughts on todays radio formats. We also talk about his standup, the local comedy scene, writing jokes, his first open mic and show, starting and running open mics, karaoke and we also discuss living with Parkinsons and how it effects his comedy and his daily activities. It was a really fun episode to record and I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I do.
On this very special episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we visit the brand new "Callback Bar" located at The Punchline Comedy Club in Sacramento and have an exclusive chat with the General Manager, Phillip Samson. We discuss travelling the world as a "Military Brat", his valiant service in the military and of course we talk about the hardest working employee, Lilly. Other topics we discuss are working for Live Nation and especially The Punchline, challenges of running the #1 comedy club in the area, National touring headliners and local showcases, The soon to be opened "Callback Bar" and what goes on in trying to open a new bar. Of course, I wouldn't let him leave without discussing Punchlines "pass" policy, what comedian Gary Gulman publicly said about the policy and also discuss the future of The San Francisco Punchline.
On the latest episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we talk with comedian Dan "The Can't Stand Up Comedian" Smith. We dive into topics such as life growing up in a wheelchair, going to college, but not high school, his start in stand up, or in his case, sit down comedy, and he also opens up about the local comedy scene and his sobriety.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, we welcome new comedian Jack Scotti. We discuss his life growing up in Folsom, Ca., training, competing and coaching track and field, his time in community college, his start in stand up comedy, hosting and performing at an open mic and his view of the local scene from the eyes of a new stand up comedian. We also talk about his bucket list and who is on his Mt. Rushmore of comedy. His answer may (or may not) surprise some people.
On this episode of The Die Laughing Podcast, your host Morty Stein brings comedian and improvisor Jesse Rivera into Morty's funeral home where we discuss ghosts, growing up as the youngest child in his family, podcasts, performing and producing improv, how he got his start in standup and the local comedy scene. Jesse also opens up about his personal struggles including addiction. We also talk about his vinyl record collection and Jesse answers the question of who he would put on HIS Mt. Rushmore of comedy.
From CEO to Comedian. In this weeks episode of The Die Laughing Podast, Morty sits down with comedian Al Moffatt. Al is new to comedy scene and comes from the corporate world. We chat about comparisons of running Ad agencies and preparing for comedy shows. We also talk about his start in comedy and also his perspective on the local comedy scene from the eyes of a new comedian. A very fun and informative episode and I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed talking and recording the episode
In this episode, we sit down with producer, comedian, burlesque performer and bubbleologist Ali Yada. We talk about her start in improv, standup, doing burlesque shows and of course we talk about her show "The Invisible Disibilities Comedy Show."
On this episode, we talk with author and comedian Jacqui Pirl. We discuss growing up in the Mid-West, living in Hawaii, how she got her start in comedy, the local comedy scene, who she would induct into the fictional Sacramento Comedy Hall of Fame and much more.
In our first episode, we sit down with comedian and local radio personality Arnie States. We talk about life in Texas, tattoos, his amazing career in radio and Arnie also opens up about a dark chapter in his life.
Hello World! Welcome to our Podcast. On this first episode, host Morty Stein and producer Deborah Stein introduce our podcast to you. Future episodes will feature conversations and interviews with comedians, producers and more! You will also hear future episodes with tips and so much more. Take a listen and comment if you wish