Afleveringen

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell tackle one of the trickiest parts of a comedian’s career: private shows.

    From fundraisers and corporate parties to birthday gigs at Dave & Buster’s, they break down what makes private shows a whole different beast—and how to avoid the biggest mistakes comics make when taking them.

    You’ll hear wild personal stories (like Vince getting booked for a mostly non-English-speaking audience and Dobie accidentally roasting a boss into a near fistfight), as well as a treasure trove of hard-earned advice on what to charge, how to prep, and how to survive the gig once you're in it.

    Key Points Discussed:

    What questions to ask before you ever say yes to a private gig

    How to price your value without underselling yourself—or the industry

    Why roasting the boss can go sideways fast (and how to handle it with tact)

    How to control the energy, introductions, and logistics of the roomWhen to say no—and how to refer gigs with good karma

    Whether you're just starting out or you’ve done 500 of these, this episode is loaded with advice you’ll actually use. And if you’ve ever asked “should I take this gig?”—this one’s for you.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dive into the wild world of comedy gimmicks—what they are, when they work, and how they’ve shaped the careers of legends and newcomers alike.

    From Vince’s brutally honest pig roast gig story to Dobie’s unforgettable transformation into a wrestling-masked “Super Chuckle,” the episode mixes hilarious personal experiences with real talk about branding, persona, and marketability.

    Along the way, they break down the gimmicks of comedy icons like Andrew Dice Clay, Larry the Cable Guy, Steve Martin, and Sam Kinison—revealing what stuck, what flopped, and why being memorable often matters more than being perfect.

    Key Points Discussed:

    What separates a gimmick from a personaThe highs and lows of trying to stand out in stand-upHow Vince uses “Bad Father” as a marketable identity, not a costumeDobie’s fully committed alter ego, “Super Chuckle”The difference between being funny
 and being memorable

    This episode is a must-listen for comedians, performers, and anyone curious about how identity plays a role in making it on stage. Laugh, cringe, and maybe rethink your brand.

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  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Dobie Maxwell takes us behind the scenes of his brand-new Dry Bar comedy special, Worst Case Scenario—from nearly deleting the contact that booked him to standing ovations and polished packaging.

    🎧 Quick heads-up: Vince’s audio is a little more distant than usual due to a mic issue during recording. Totally listenable—and Dobie comes through loud and clear. Thanks for rolling with us, because this episode is packed with gold.

    Dobie shares what it takes to land and film a clean special, why attitude and attire matter, and how kindness offstage is sometimes your best tool. Vince shares a jaw-dropping story about getting assaulted by a grown man while working at a movie theater as a teenager—and how the moment changed his outlook on confrontation and control" —while Dobie kicks it off with one of the most chaotic “guest set” stories you’ll ever hear.

    Key Points Discussed:

    What Dry Bar really looks for in comics (and how Dobie got booked)How to prep for a clean set without losing your voiceWhy presentation, timing, and professionalism make all the differenceThe unglamorous moments behind the scenes (including Utah thrift store shopping)Real lessons from real gigs—some of them hilariously unhinged

    Whether you're a comic, a speaker, or just a fan of how the sausage gets made, this episode delivers insight, inspiration, and a few “you can’t make this up” moments.

    🎧 Listen anywhere you get your podcasts

    #PutYourFunnyPodcast #DryBarComedy #StandUpTips #CleanComedy #DobieMaxwell #VinceCarone

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down exactly what makes a stand-up comedy show go from awkward and chaotic... to unforgettable.

    Drawing on decades of experience, they share the fundamentals of a well-run comedy show—from sound and lighting to seating, stage setup, check drops, hosting, booking, and even performer etiquette. Whether you’re a new comic, an aspiring booker, or a fan of live comedy, this episode is your behind-the-scenes guide to how it all really works.

    Key Points Discussed:

    Why a bad sound system can ruin even the best comic

    The ideal seating and stage setup for audience connection

    How to book and balance a lineup that builds, not competes

    What makes a great host (and why that role is often the most important)

    How long should your show actually run (hint: less is more)

    What to do when the check drop kills the vibe

    The difference between a "closer" and a "headliner"—and why it matters

    Professional prep: why comics should carry mics, batteries, and backup outfits

    How to handle rowdy crowds without derailing the night

    When to cancel a show—and how to do it the right way

    #PutYourFunnyPodcast #ComedyProduction #StandUpTips #ShowRunner #ComedyBusiness

  • Crafting Comedy in 10 Words or Less

    In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dissect the often misunderstood tool of the one-liner—and why every comic should learn how to use them, even if they don’t rely on them as a primary style.

    Dobie opens with a wild story about performing at a women’s prison, revealing how a perfect one-liner landed at the riskiest moment. Vince breaks down how he builds trust quickly during high-stakes shows like cancer benefits and corporate gigs, and how one-liners have saved him more than once. Together, they explore how quick jokes serve as palate cleansers, punch-up tools, and audience trust builders.

    Whether you're a comic, speaker, or just a fan of comedy, this episode shows that sometimes the quickest line is the smartest play.

    Key Points Discussed:

    When and why to use one-liners, even if you're a storyteller or ranter

    The role of one-liners in riffing, crowd work, and audience trust

    Personal stories from wild shows: prison gigs, benefit nights, and corporate returns

    Examples from legends like Rodney Dangerfield, Mitch Hedberg, and George Carlin

    Why mastering misdirection and brevity can take your act to the next level

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell take the stage together—literally—for the very first time on video, live from Zanies Comedy Club in Rosemont. What starts as a fun Q&A quickly evolves into a revealing and hilarious look at how two very different comics found their way to the mic.

    Vince opens up about using humor to fit in as a kid, battling stage fright before his graduation set, and learning to embrace ranting as his signature style. Dobie shares stories of getting kicked out of class for cracking jokes, a life-changing compliment from a heckler, and how growing up with his cold German grandmother shaped his comedic instincts.

    Through laughs, reflection, and a few shared jabs, the duo delivers a backstage pass into the formative years that made them the comics they are today.

    Key Points Discussed:

    Why Vince almost bailed on his comedy graduation show

    Dobie's first standing ovation from a heckler named Drugstore Bob

    How ranting styles emerged out of fear of silence

    Why comedians don’t always want to be the funny guy offstage

    The long game of comedy—and why connection now matters more than laughs

    This episode is raw, funny, and filled with unexpected vulnerability. It’s perfect for anyone curious about the comedy grind, early failures, and what it really takes to stick with it long enough to find your voice.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dig into the one thing every comic will face—disappointment.

    Whether it’s a set that fell flat, an audience that didn’t respond, or a career milestone that didn’t happen the way you hoped, disappointment is baked into the journey. Vince opens up about how he responds to those moments in real time—and why he's learning not to let them define him. Dobie reflects on decades of unmet expectations, and how he’s learned to separate who he is from how the night goes.

    Together, they unpack the emotional landmines comedians face when things don’t go as planned—and why resilience, detachment, and self-awareness are just as critical as punchlines.

    Key Points Discussed:

    The mindset behind letting go of audience validation

    How to emotionally recover from a show that doesn’t go well

    Learning to be disappointed without becoming bitter

    The importance of not letting one night affect your whole week

    Why disappointment is tied to expectation

    Processing disappointment before reacting publicly

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell pull back the curtain on one of the biggest hurdles for any performer: stage fright.

    Whether you're a comic, speaker, or someone terrified of giving a work presentation, this episode will hit home. Vince shares how close he came to quitting comedy entirely just hours before his graduation set at Zanies. Dobie opens up about bombing as a child ventriloquist—and how both moments shaped their path forward.

    Together, they reflect on the mental games, physical symptoms, and internal battles that come with fear of the stage—and how to overcome it with preparation, repetition, and the right mindset.

    Key Points Discussed:

    The difference between nervousness and stage fright

    Why passion can override fear

    Why bringing friends to your first show is a terrible idea

    Physical tricks to calm your nerves before speaking

    The power of reframing stage time: “It’s not about you, it’s about them.”

    This episode is a relatable and honest look at what it takes to push past fear and step into your spotlight—no matter what stage you’re standing on.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down what it really takes to succeed behind the scenes in comedy—from the green room to the booker's inbox.

    You can crush your set
 and still never get invited back. Why? Because talent alone isn't enough. This episode unpacks the unspoken rules of the business, how to build (or blow) relationships, and how to navigate the politics of comedy without losing your soul.

    Vince and Dobie share real stories of comics who won—and others who self-sabotaged—based not on talent, but on how they played the game.

    Key Points Discussed:

    What “comedy politics” really meansHow to handle egos, green rooms, and comedy condosThe difference between professionalism and being a kiss-assHow bookers, staff, and other comics impact your careerReal stories of mistakes, missed chances, and big wins

    Whether you’re just starting out in comedy or years deep into Whether you're just starting out or have years behind the mic, this episode is your cheat code to playing the long game—and winning it.

    Tune in now and learn how to master the moves that matter.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell tackle one of the biggest taboos in stand-up comedy—stealing material.

    For comedians, joke theft isn’t just unethical—it’s a career killer. But what really counts as stealing? How do you protect your material while making sure you’re not unintentionally copying someone else? Vince and Dobie share real-life stories of joke theft, the fine line between parallel thinking and plagiarism, and how stealing can destroy a comedian’s reputation.

    Key Points Discussed:

    What counts as stealing a joke—and what doesn’t?The difference between "parallel thinking" and straight-up joke theftWhy audiences don’t care if a joke is stolen—but comedians doHow to handle it if you realize you’ve accidentally used someone else’s materialReal stories of comedians who stole jokes—and what happened to themHow to develop a unique voice so your material can’t be easily copied

    Vince and Dobie also discuss the ethics of buying jokes, how major comedians have been accused of joke theft, and whether stolen jokes can ever be taken back.

    💬 Have you ever heard a comedian use a joke you KNOW came from someone else? What’s your take on joke theft?

    🎧 Listen now and find out why stealing material is the ultimate comedy crime!

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down the art—and the challenges—of crafting topical humor that lands with an audience before the news cycle moves on.

    Topical comedy can make a comedian seem sharp and in-the-moment, but it comes with risks. A joke that kills today might be irrelevant tomorrow. Vince and Dobie discuss how to write and deliver timely jokes while avoiding material that ages too quickly. They also dive into how topical humor plays differently in clubs, late-night shows, and social media.

    Key Points Discussed:

    The difference between topical, observational, and evergreen comedyHow to write jokes that stay fresh without becoming outdated overnightThe biggest mistakes comedians make when tackling current eventsWhy some topical jokes age well and others die instantlyHow late-night comedy writers approach topical humor differently than club comics

    Whether you’re a comedian trying to sharpen your material or just curious about how humor reacts to the news cycle, this episode gives you the inside scoop on making topical humor work.

    Listen now and learn how to make your jokes timely, sharp, and effective!

    Drop your favorite (or worst) topical joke in the comments! Then hit play

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down one of the most essential tools in a comedian’s arsenal—the five-minute set.

    From auditions and TV spots to festival submissions and surprise guest sets, a strong five-minute chunk can open doors in comedy. But crafting one isn’t as easy as it sounds. Vince and Dobie discuss why five-minute bits are the foundation of a great act and how to write, refine, and structure them for maximum impact.

    Key Points Discussed:
    ✅ Why every comedian needs multiple five-minute sets – and how to build them over time
    ✅ How to break larger bits into tight five-minute chunks for late-night, festivals, and club auditions
    ✅ The “Sequel & Prequel” method – a unique way to expand your material
    ✅ How to handle being put on the spot with five minutes of unexpected stage time
    ✅ Vince’s real-life story of being thrown back on stage at the Improv with five minutes to fill

    Vince and Dobie also share their own struggles with writing in five-minute increments, explaining why it’s not their natural style—but why it’s a necessary skill for every comedian.

    đŸŽ€ If you’ve ever struggled to cut your material down—or wondered how to structure the perfect five-minute set—this episode is a must-listen!

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell tackle one of the toughest realities of stand-up comedy—handling criticism.

    Whether it’s an angry audience member, a harsh review, or a troll on social media, every comedian will face negative feedback at some point. But how you handle it can make or break your career. Vince and Dobie share their best and worst experiences dealing with criticism, offering insights into when to stand your ground and when to just walk away.

    Key Points Discussed:

    Why comedians fixate on the ONE audience member not laughing (even in a packed room)How to respond when someone tells you, "You were funny, but
"The reality of social media trolls & why deleting comments is often the best moveStories of hecklers, bad post-show interactions, and handling them with class (or not)When criticism is actually helpful—and when it’s just noise

    Vince also plays a real-life recording of an angry audience member tearing him apart post-show, and Dobie shares how one audience member completely misinterpreted his joke—demanding he stop telling it forever.

    If you’ve ever struggled with taking criticism—or want to know how to handle it better—this episode is a must-listen.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell take you inside the messy, frustrating, and rewarding process of building a brand-new hour of comedy.

    Vince shares how he develops a fresh set, why not every joke makes the cut, and how he balances writing with testing material on stage. Dobie reflects on the differences between past comedy eras and today, exploring how the industry has changed from the 500-show grind of the ‘80s to the current expectation of releasing a new hour every two years.

    Key Points Discussed:

    How to shape a new hour without forcing material The importance of testing bits in front of real audiences Why comedians need to evolve their material over time How Vince learned to “write on stage” and refine his stories The difference between polishing a set vs. continuously creating

    Vince also reveals the working theme for his next special, discussing how he organizes ideas and chooses what fits (and what gets scrapped). Whether you’re writing your first set or working toward a full special, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and real talk about the creative process.

    đŸŽ€ Tune in now and learn how to turn new ideas into a killer hour of comedy!

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down one of the most overlooked yet essential skills in stand-up comedy—hosting.
    Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned headliner, learning how to run the show, set the tone, and keep the audience engaged is a game-changer. Dobie shares his experiences as a seasoned Emcee, while Vince reflects on the challenges of adjusting his high-energy style to fit the hosting role.
    Key Points Discussed:✅ The true role of a comedy host—why you’re the most important person in the lineup✅ Why being a great MC can boost your career and income✅ Biggest hosting mistakes that ruin the flow of a comedy show✅ How to transition seamlessly between comics and control the crowd✅ What every host should (and shouldn’t) say when introducing comedians
    From learning how to handle rowdy crowds to understanding why hosting is an underrated path to success, this episode is packed with insider knowledge, hilarious stories, and practical advice.
    đŸŽ€ Tune in now and level up your hosting game!

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down one of the most crucial elements of stand-up comedy: the closing bit.
    Your closer isn’t just another joke—it’s the exclamation point on your performance, the moment that leaves the audience with a lasting impression. Vince and Dobie discuss what makes a great closing bit, share legendary examples, and reveal how their own closers have evolved over time. From callbacks to summation, they unpack the different techniques that help comedians craft the perfect ending to their sets.
    Vince shares the thought process behind the closer in his Bad Father special and how a long-form personal story became his ultimate show-ender. Dobie reflects on his own experiences with closers—what worked, what bombed, and how audiences will always tell you when it’s time to get off stage.
    Key Points Discussed:

    What separates a strong closer from a weak one
    The role of summation, callbacks, and exclamation points in a closing bit
    Legendary closing bits from comics like Ellen DeGeneres, Bill Burr, and George Carlin
    Why your closer should signal the end organically—without you saying "Goodnight!"
    How to avoid common mistakes, including rambling, weak endings, and bad merch pitches

    Whether you're a new comic trying to build your first set or a seasoned performer refining your closer, this episode delivers practical insights, personal stories, and a few laughs along the way.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dissect one of the most crucial elements of any comedian’s set: the opening bit.
    They discuss why the opening of your set is the most important moment to grab attention, build trust, and establish your comedic style. Vince shares his approach to structuring an opening bit, using his Bad Father special as an example of connecting with audiences through relatable, topical humor. Dobie reflects on his tried-and-true “Mr. Lucky” opener, offering advice on creating rhythm and earning that first big laugh.
    Whether you're a seasoned comic or stepping on stage for the first time, this episode dives into the building blocks of a memorable opening bit. It provides actionable tips for leaving a lasting first impression.
    Key Points Discussed:

    The difference between an opening line, an opening bit, and a theme
    How to build rhythm, trust, and connection in the first three minutes
    Why non-controversial openers often work best
    Tips to avoid common pitfalls like asking questions or meandering setups
    Personal examples from Vince and Dobie on how to grab attention fast

    This episode is your guide to starting strong, setting the tone, and structuring an opener that hooks your audience from the moment you step on stage.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell lay out the blueprint for turning dreams into achievable goals with their signature blend of humor and hard-earned wisdom.
    Vince opens up about his meticulous planning process, sharing how he uses a mix of OCD and ADD to set clear, measurable goals that drive his success. Dobie reflects on the lessons learned from 40 years in comedy, including the pitfalls of winging it and the importance of building a strong foundation through repetition and resilience.
    Together, they break down the art of crafting a "Day 1 Plan" that balances big-picture ambitions with actionable daily steps, whether you're starting out or looking to level up your craft.
    Key Points Discussed:

    How to set SMART goals that keep you on track
    The value of breaking goals into micro and macro steps
    Why planning for both on-stage and off-stage growth is critical
    Lessons from Dobie’s early days on the road and Vince’s disciplined approach to producing new material

    Whether you’re a comedian, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing a dream, this episode delivers practical advice, relatable stories, and plenty of laughs to inspire your next big move.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell share their comedic hopes, dreams, and unforgettable lessons from the stand-up trenches.
    Vince recounts his surreal experience thinking he was auditioning for Saturday Night Live, only to realize it was for an extra role—and how the trip changed his comedic approach forever. Dobie reflects on his early aspirations, his heartbreak after bombing his first paid gig, and how failures shaped his path.
    Together, they explore the evolution of their dreams, what it takes to succeed in comedy, and why resilience is the secret ingredient to turning hopes into reality.
    Key Points Discussed:

    The importance of mentors and learning from failures
    How Vince’s SNL "audition" became a turning point
    Dobie's story of persevering after early rejections
    Balancing life’s responsibilities while chasing big dreams

    Whether you’re an aspiring comedian or simply curious about the craft, this episode is packed with relatable moments, humor, and actionable lessons on embracing the highs and lows of pursuing your passion.

  • In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone shares an unforgettable story about how a childhood comedic idol, David Spade, inspired his comedy journey—and how that journey took an unexpected turn when Vince was bumped from a feature slot for Spade's show. This personal tale takes a surprising twist when Vince’s resilience leads to an unbelievable opportunity with the Chicago Blackhawks.
    Joined by Dobie Maxwell, the duo dives into the emotional highs and lows of show business, offering insight into handling setbacks and seizing unexpected opportunities. They break down lessons in resilience, professionalism, and staying composed when things don’t go your way.
    Key Points Discussed:

    How Vince’s admiration for David Spade shaped his early career
    The heartbreak of being removed from the show and how he handled it
    The importance of professionalism when faced with disappointment
    How Vince’s standout performance at the Improv led to a call from the Chicago Blackhawks
    Lessons on building trust and maintaining relationships in the comedy and corporate world

    This episode is a raw and inspiring reminder that setbacks can set the stage for extraordinary comebacks. Tune in for laughter, lessons, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how resilience can open the door to life-changing opportunities.