Gareth Reynolds shares his struggles in show business before co-hosting The Dollop podcast with Marc. They discuss the podcast's creation and Gareth's Midwestern roots. Hilarious anecdotes, drug experiences, and their comedy journey are also highlighted in the conversation.
Starting a podcast can lead to breakthroughs in the entertainment industry.
Growing up in Milwaukee shaped Gareth's Midwestern personality.
Success in comedy requires perseverance and seizing unexpected opportunities.
Deep dives
Moving to LA for Sketch Comedy
After graduating from college, the individual moved to LA with a writing partner to pursue sketch comedy. They started a sketch group and performed at the improv Olympic, which led to more involvement in improv comedy.
Encountering Other Aspiring Comedians
During this time, they encountered and interacted with other aspiring comedians like Justin Wilman and Eliza Schlesinger, who were also involved in sketch shows at Emerson College.
Challenges and Auditions in LA
They faced challenges in acting auditions due to their background in theater, realizing the need for a different approach for on-camera roles. Despite initial struggles, they continued to audition and seek opportunities in the industry.
Transition to Stand-Up Comedy
Their involvement in sketch and improv comedy in LA led to a greater interest in stand-up comedy, eventually prompting a transition towards exploring opportunities in the stand-up comedy scene in addition to sketch performance.
Career Evolution in Comedy Writing
The podcast episode delves into the guest's journey in the comedy industry, highlighting their progression from performing at birthday parties as a clown to writing for major shows like Arrested Development, The Rest of Development, and others. The guest shares how online sketches led to a Comedy Central deal, which opened doors to various writing opportunities, showcasing the importance of perseverance and seizing unexpected opportunities in the entertainment world.
Navigating the Stand-up Scene and Podcasting
The podcast conversation touches on stand-up comedy experiences, including performing at iconic venues like The Comedy Store and navigating the challenges of open mics. The guest reflects on the podcast's success, discussing the launch of their popular show 'The Dollop' and the recent venture into a new advice-based podcast titled 'We're Here to Help,' demonstrating the versatility and evolution in their creative pursuits.
Gareth Reynolds was struggling in show business as a comic, a writer, an actor, you name it. But not unlike Marc, he finally broke through when he started hosting a podcast along with fellow comic Dave Anthony, The Dollop, where Dave tells stories from history that Gareth knows nothing about. Gareth and Marc talk about what led to the creation of that show ten years ago, as well as Gareth’s years before, growing up in Milwaukee to British parents but absorbing a thoroughly Midwestern personality.
