Join comedian Dave Smith, renowned for his sharp wit on "Part of the Problem," as he and Michael Malice dive deep into the world of stand-up comedy. They discuss the highs and lows of the comedy lifestyle, stressing the importance of authenticity in a landscape where inauthenticity can be detrimental. Smith shares insights on the changing rules of 'paying dues' in comedy today, and the duo reflects on balancing personal life with the challenges of being on the road. It's a candid take on the vulnerabilities and joys of making people laugh!
Dave Smith emphasizes the necessity of authenticity in stand-up comedy, arguing that adopting false personas can hinder a comedian's success.
The podcast discusses the significant role both successful and failed performances play in a comedian's development and learning process.
Challenges of balancing travel and family life are highlighted as essential considerations for comedians pursuing a career on the road.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Biltong
Biltong is introduced as a healthier alternative to traditional beef jerky, boasting a superior taste and nutritional profile. Unlike beef jerky, which is often high in soy, sodium, and sugar, biltong emphasizes natural ingredients that allow the true flavor of the meat to shine. This snack not only provides a great source of protein, but it also avoids the bloated feeling many experience after consuming processed snacks. The episode highlights the different flavors available, including original and spicy chili varieties, encouraging a shift towards healthier snacking options.
Exploring the Comedy Scene
The conversation shifts to the nuances of pursuing a career in stand-up comedy, particularly for those just starting. The comedian emphasizes the importance of diving headfirst into the craft, suggesting that aspiring comedians embrace the learning process through experience rather than get caught up in seeking perfection. The discussion touches upon the emotional rollercoaster of performing live, where a comic's ability to recover after a bombed set often reflects their growth and maturity in the art. Anecdotes shared provide insight into the challenges faced by new comics in navigating their initial stages.
Learning from Failure
The episode discusses that both good and bad performances play a crucial role in developing a comedian’s skill set. It emphasizes the importance of watching not just successful comedians but also those who bomb, as both experiences provide valuable lessons on what works and what doesn't. The discussion highlights how the crafting of jokes evolves over time, with some bits needing months before they resonate while others unexpectedly stand out right away. This exploration encourages a mindset open to continual learning and adaptation within the ever-changing landscape of comedy.
Finding Authenticity in Performance
Authenticity emerges as a central theme when discussing what makes a comedian resonate with their audience. Personal anecdotes underline the significance of being true to oneself rather than adopting fabricated personas to fit into expected archetypes. The conversation emphasizes how successful comedians set themselves apart by being genuine in their performances, attracting audiences with their unique perspectives. This authenticity translates to political commentary as well, urging commentators to bring their distinct voices to discussions rather than defaulting to repetitive narratives.
Navigating Life as a Stand-Up Comic
Life on the road as a stand-up comic presents its own set of challenges, especially regarding travel and family life balance. The conversation reveals the dichotomy between the joys of performing and the difficulties of frequent travel that takes the comedian away from home. Even as the comedian recognizes that this lifestyle has allowed for financial stability, he candidly shares the emotional toll of being away from family. The episode culminates in discussions about attempts to find a balance between career commitments and personal life while adapting to the evolving nature of the comedy scene.
Michael Malice (“YOUR WELCOME”) is thinking about joining the standup comedy scene, so why not bring back one of the podcast’s favorite guests, “Comic” Dave Smith, to give him some advice, right?
Michael and Dave talk about Dave’s love and hatred of the stand-up comedy lifestyle, how inauthenticity can quickly destroy your career as a comedian, and why the concept of “paying your dues” doesn’t always apply in today’s standup comedy world.
