Industry Standard w/ Barry Katz

In this heartfelt “Ask Me Anything” episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz answers audience questions about navigating the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of originality, adaptability, and resilience. He shares how he evaluates projects based on unique characters and fresh concepts, and how longevity in comedy often stems from the ability to evolve—citing George Carlin and Dave Chappelle as prime examples. Barry opens up about personal loss, career redirection, and the powerful ways rejection and tragedy shaped his path, leading a successful career in the comedy business. The episode closes on a poignant note, with a life lesson from his son about treating people, time, and purpose with the value and care of a diamond, not a rock.Blueprint for SuccessBarryKatz.com/BlueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!

In this powerful AMA episode, legendary comedy manager Barry Katz breaks down what separates the good from the unforgettable in stand-up comedy. He shares why having a distinct voice — one that’s instantly recognizable — is non-negotiable for any comic who wants to rise above the noise. Barry dives into how comedians like Tony Hinchcliffe found success by adapting when the industry wouldn’t, and why regret is a useless emotion when the world might have a better plan in store.From the unmatched value of stand-up as a writing bootcamp, to the psychology behind the relentless drive of elite comics, Barry doesn’t hold back. He highlights the importance of the “holy s**t” moment — that undeniable flash of brilliance that every great comic has — and how the zone that comedians enter isn’t just a mindset, it’s a way of life. If you're serious about comedy, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, originality, and building a legacy.Join Barry's Blueprint for Successhttps://www.barrykatz.com/blueprint

In this episode of Industry Standard, comedian and actor Adam Ray—best known for his spot-on Dr. Phil impression—opens up about the defining moments of his childhood that led him to a career in comedy. From being an overweight kid with the nickname “Quick Fat” and growing up with divorced parents, to discovering the power of impressions and laughter, Adam shares how humor became his outlet. He also discusses the behind-the-scenes story of why Brad Williams stepped away from their podcast, and how their friendship survived the transition. Plus, Adam reflects on his time on MADtv , and early stand-up career opportunities like opening for Bobby Lee Enjoy this funny and heartfelt pre-Dr. Phil Live conversation with Adam Ray, recorded in 2018. Blueprint for Success https://barrykatz.com/blueprint Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmenthttps://barrykatz.com

Legendary sportscaster Chris Myers has been the voice behind some of the biggest moments in sports — from Super Bowls and World Series to the Olympics and beyond. But in this episode of INDUSTRY STANDARD, he opens up like never before. Chris takes us behind the mic and into the pressure of national broadcasts, recounting what it felt like to freeze on-air during the Super Bowl with 100 million people watching — and how he bounced back.He also shares deeply personal moments, including the heartbreaking loss of his son and the strength it took to keep moving forward. From his first-hand take on the Luka Doncic trade to the unforgettable post-Super Bowl interviews with legends like Mahomes and Reid, this conversation is a rare mix of vulnerability, wisdom, and true behind-the-scenes stories from decades at the top of the game. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or just someone who’s faced pressure, grief, or the fear of failure — this episode will hit home. Order Chris Myers' book "That Deserves a Wow" https://www.harpercollins.com/products/that-deserves-a-wow-chris-myers?variant=41561781403682Blueprint for Success - barrykatz.com/blueprint Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience! Barry Katz Entertainment barrykatz.com

Barry Katz sits with film and television director, Gil Junger (10 Things I Hate About You, Ellen), for a deep conversation on the mental blocks that actors and artists face in the entertainment industry. Gil shares what he looks for in actors, as well as incredible stories about Heath Ledger's and Julia Stiles' auditions, working with Oprah, and directing Ellen's coming-out episode. He offers impactful insights on the creative mind and the struggles that creative people face, how he personally overcame those struggles and how he's now helping actors overcome them through his Breakthru Company workshops. Check out Gil Junger's audition workshops: The Breakthru Company https://www.instagram.com/breakthrucompany https://thebreakthruco.com/Blueprint for Success https://barrykatz.com/blueprint Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience! Barry Katz Entertainment https://barrykatz.com

Comedy talent manager and producer Barry Katz answers your questions about the stand-up comedy business in this episode of Industry Standard. Barry answers questions about how to turn your career around, his favorite SNL sketches, the traits of his least favorite comedians, how avant-garde comedians can succeed in the business, and more.barrykatz.com

In this episode, talent manager Barry Katz sits with stand-up comedian and actor Paul Rodriguez to discuss Paul's path to success in the entertainment business, from his desire to get out of Compton, to working as a doorman at the Comedy Store and getting noticed by Mitzi Shore, to becoming one of The Original Latin Kings of Comedy, and appearing in major motion pictures. Paul talks about working with Clint Eastwood, Michael Mann, Will Smith and more. He also provides insight into his joke writing process, and drops advice for aspiring comedians.

In Memory of Marty Callner August 25, 1946-March 17, 2025In this classic and exclusive episode of Industry Standard, Marty Callner shares the story of his rise to show business success, from beginning as a local news director in Ohio, then on to directing Celtics broadcasts, before moving to Los Angeles where he directed numerous classic comedy specials for comedian like Robin Williams, Chris Rock, George Carlin, Jerry Seinfeld, and more, as well as directing iconic music videos for Aerosmith, Cher, Fleetwood Mac, Twisted SIster and more. Marty also reveals his proudest achievement in entertainment: creating the NFL x HBO series Hard Knocks. Marty also offers his advice for aspiring directors, producer and comedians working towards success in the entertainment industry.Blueprint for SuccessAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmentbarrykatz.com

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz has an insightful conversation with successful network executive Cheryl Bayer about her career. From orchestrating the success of shows like Baywatch, Sex and the City, and Family Guy, to connecting with actors like Rob Lowe, Chris Rock, Pamela Anderson, and more at the beginning of their careers. Blueprint for Successbarrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmentbarrykatz.com

Comedy talent manager Barry Katz provides a beacon of tough love and knowledge for anyone trying to navigate the extremely tough industry of stand-up comedy and entertainment. In this Ask Me Anything episode of Industry Standard, Barry takes your questions, and shares what makes a good stand-up premise, the road to success in stand-up comedy, and what makes people stand out as comics and entertainers. Blueprint for Success (https://barrykatz.com/blueprint) Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!