Let's Talk About Sets! Episode 051 COMEDIC STORYTELLING YES AGAIN – Jeff Simmermon: “Building a gobstopper from the inside out”
May 14, 2019
Gastor Almonte, Brooklyn-born stand-up known for his Comedy Central “Brooklyn Batman” tale. Jeff Simmerman, award-winning NYC comic and storytelling teacher who maps a five-point comedic formula. They explore building stories from need to return, using surprise twists, vivid sensory detail, vulnerability over one-liners, structuring long tales, and practical editing and rehearsal techniques.
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Episode notes
Anchor Stories With A Clear Need
- Stories work when you establish who you are and what you deeply want right away.
- That 'need' reveals stakes and often traces back to parental approval or early wounds.
Show How Your Actions Reveal You
- Show who you are by how you try to get what you want, not just by stating traits.
- Drill down with repeated "so what" questions to find the deeper emotional stakes.
Vulnerability Is Comedic Currency
- Vulnerability plus jokes builds connection; pure vulnerability without laughs can feel manipulative.
- Admitting flaws lets audiences love you by reflecting their own loneliness and fear.
