Podcasts by Talking Shop w/ James Dugan

The Last One with Paige Maney from 2022-04-22T10:00:02

This week, James and Rob are joined by Paige Maney to end the podcast. 

Thanks for listening everybody.

I'm Better Now with Bryan Duff from 2022-04-12T14:12:33

In the second to last episode, James and Rob are joined by local man Bryan Duff!

They talk with Bryan about his start in Chicago, Improvised Shakespeare, Baby Wants Candy, rough ...

Chaotic Nature with Louie Saunders from 2022-04-06T02:06:02

This week, James and Rob are joined by lover of serial killers Louie Saunders!

They talk with Louie about creative fulfilment, getting old in improv, tanking in shows, Boy-ish, a...

Goofballs with Brian Stack from 2022-03-29T10:00:22

This week, James and Rob are joined by late night writer Brian Stack! Yes, that Brian Stack. 

They talk with Brian about growing up in the suburbs, early influences, introverts, ...

Better Than the Status Quo with Mike Johnson from 2022-03-23T01:00:42

This week, James and Rob are joined by improviser and puppeteer Mike Johnson!

We talk with Mike about his finance background, how he found improv, early days at The Playground, T...

Yes and Go F**K Yourself with Mick Napier from 2022-03-16T05:38:54

This week, James and Rob are joined by director, theatre owner, and improv legend: Mick Napier!

They talk with Mick about the beginning of the Annoyance, improv "rules", video ga...

Year of Yes with Kelly Leonard from 2022-03-08T11:00:37

This week, James and Rob are joined by fellow podcaster: Kelly Leonard!

They talk with Kelly about his start at Second City, how he rose through the ranks to become Executive Vic...

I Can Write Stuff with John Lutz from 2022-03-01T11:00:58

This week, James and Rob are joined by actor/writer/improviser and nice guy: JOHN LUTZ!

They talk with John about his start in Chicago, creating new forms, auditioning for SNL, p...

Gallows Humor with Susan Messing from 2022-02-23T04:16:39

This week, James and Rob are joined by improv legend and all around great person: Susan Messing!

They talk with Susan about volunteer laughter, F.I.D.S., stupid goals, early Anno...

Try Everything with Dave Pasquesi from 2022-02-15T11:00:03

This week, James and Rob are joined by the great Dave Pasquesi!

They talk with Dave about Harold openings, successful improv, worst shows, stand up, and Star Wars. It's a real tr...

Hedonic Treadmill with Andy Junk from 2022-02-08T11:00:36

This week, James and Rob are joined by their first (and maybe only) repeat guest: ANDY JUNK!

They talk with Andy about moving to New York, personal trust, restarting, hobbie vs c...

A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT from 2022-02-01T11:00

This week, James and Rob share a big announcement. 

Chef's Arrogance with Bruce Phillips from 2022-01-25T11:00:43

This week, James and Rob are joined by the guest they swore they would never have on: Bruce Phillips!

They talk with Bruce about early memories, post show hangs, auditions, so mu...

Dog Relaxation Protocol with Meredith Stepien from 2022-01-19T00:44:29

This week, James and Rob are virtual with special guest Meredith Stepien! They talk with Meredith about Star Trek, training a dog, working for the Alder Planetarium, talking to astronauts, and S...

Very Successful Failed Comedian with Geoff Dow from 2022-01-11T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by generic white guy Geoff Dow! They talk with Geoff about danger zones, auditioning for SNL, Just for Laughs, failing at important moments, improv advice, an...

Stone Soup with Tara Egan from 2022-01-04T11:00

And we're back! Kicking off 2022, James and Rob are joined by the president of improv Tara Egan! They talk with Tara about gifted schools, staying artistic, college improv, auditions, short form...

EPISODE RE-BROADCAST with Tina Arfaee from 2021-12-21T11:00

This week, James and Rob have to air a rerun. The holidays are a busy time! 

Back in August 2020, they were joined by Tina Arfaee! This was originally episode 81. 

ME-YOW with Brad Johnson from 2021-12-15T05:12:29

This week, James and Rob are joined by Baton Rouge's own Brad Johnson! They talk with Brad about understudying, SNL dreams, writing, true friendship, method acting, and brushes with celebrities....

Hot Boy Cast with Josie Benedetti from 2021-12-07T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by new camera owner Josie Benedetti! They talk with Josie about growing up in Montana, attending school in Portland, Baby Wants Candy, Fringe Fest, moving to ...

Self-Sabotage with Annie Sullivan from 2021-11-30T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Annie Sullivan! They talk with Annie about her time in comedy studies, cool older brothers, writing partners, inspiration, phases of comedy, Devil's Daught...

Beetlejuice with Dan Shea from 2021-11-23T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by tech guy Dan Shea! We talk with Dan about this time as house manager at iO, event planning, producing shows, running the board, bad pulls, and college issu...

Dutch Total Football with Karl Bradley from 2021-11-16T11:00

AND WE'RE BACK! 

After a week off, James and Rob are joined by the smartest man they know: Karl Bradley! We talk with Karl about grad school, neuroscience, emo scream bands, teac...

Concentrated Joy with John Sabine from 2021-11-03T03:42:03

This week, James and Rob are joined by one of the best: John Sabine! They talk with John about tracking shows, the return of the Late 90s, teaching, twitter, and how Yes And might be bad. 

JPM (Jokes per Minute) with Jesse Swanson from 2021-10-27T02:56:11

This week, James and Rob are joined by Second City producer Jesse Swanson! They talk with Jesse about his self proclaimed mediocre rise, updates, senses of humor, how we're all broken, and how h...

Musical Liaison with Harrison Lott from 2021-10-19T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by their final punch (kinda) on the Devil's Daughter free sandwich card: Harrison Lott! They talk with Harrison about traveling, comfort zones, confidence, ar...

A Very Relaxed Woman with Claire McFadden from 2021-10-12T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by the wonderful Claire McFadden! They talk with Claire about social media rules, long boarding, tour co, Arts and Crafts, negativity, working for JackBox Gam...

A Dart Through Jelly with Rosie Moan from 2021-10-05T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by the fantastic Rosie Moan! We finally got her! 

We talk with Rosie about vacations, gig life, on camera coaching, teaching, Paddington Bear,...

Definitely Not a Flex with David Yontz from 2021-09-28T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by a Wooster Rooster Alumni David Yontz. They talk with David about having a child, college days, thesis projects, writing comedic music, becoming an MD for i...

Schlubby with Tim Metzler from 2021-09-21T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by This Man Tim Metzler! They talk with Tim about marriage, recharging yourself, the worst auditions, moving, Garden Boys, Beth Kuhn, and the quickest ship ta...

Rebel with No Cause with Maria Konopken from 2021-09-14T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Maria Konopken! They talk with Maria about her start in comedy/story telling, solo shows, specific cultural references, Matt Damon Improv, Burlesque is Mor...

Healthy Comedians with Anne Libera from 2021-09-07T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by comedy mom Anne Libera! They talk with Anne about various comedy theories, t...

Big Magic with Meghan Babbe from 2021-08-31T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by South Dakota's own Meghan Babbe! They talk with Meghan about Tour Co, Covid Companies, stress dreams, understudying, TV, Work in Progress, and much more. <...

Buncha Hams with Jessica Antes from 2021-08-24T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by the always teaching Jessica Antes! They talk with Jess about teaching every age, She Camp, Spoon River, teaching virtually, and Jess shares some fantastic ...

Feet Off with Scott Piebenga from 2021-08-18T01:33:42

This week, James and Rob are joined by the fastest moving 80 year old man we know Scott Piebenga!

We talk with Scott about new challenges, improv "rules", living in Denver, cults...

Talking Shop: Remake the Podcast from 2021-08-10T10:00

Hello Shopaholics! No new episode this week but instead of nothing here's something from Rob's first endeavor into podcasting. 

An episode of REMAKE THE PODCAST. Rob, a co-host, ...

Good Right Away with Phylicia McLeod from 2021-08-03T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by the top skechers sales person Phylicia McLeod! They talk with Phylicia about growing up in Wisconsin, wishes, scam child acting classes, bar-prov, improv f...

Is Improv Good? with David Schwartzbaum from 2021-07-27T10:00

James and Rob took a week off! But now they're back and better than ever with special guest David Schwartzbaum!

They talk with David about growing up in Miami, Meisner technique,...

Spoons Up with Colin Rourke from 2021-07-13T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Colin Rourke! They talk with Colin about cruise ships, Second City House Co, remembering names, his journey to find comedy, magical moments, and blowing up...

Raised on TV with Ashley Whitehurst from 2021-07-07T02:55:32

This week, James and Rob are joined by their old friend Ashley Whitehurst! They talk with Ashley about Late Night shows, analyzing comedy, callbacks, classics, and so much more.

...

Episode Re-Broadcast with Alex Bellisle from 2021-06-29T10:00

Rob was busy this week! So here's a rerun.

From Nov 2019, episode 40, it's the fantastic Alex Bellisle!

Follow Alex on instagram @ Listen

Party Mom with Brooke Breit from 2021-06-22T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by improviser, writer, game director Brooke Breit! They talk with Brooke about her time on Second City's ETC Stage, Reality TV, baking, working at JackBox Gam...

Throw Me a Line with Pad Connelly from 2021-06-15T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by one of the nicest guys Padraic Connelly! They talk with Pad about human attractions, Vegas, Mission: Improvable, ComedySportz, being an Artistic Director, ...

Don't Do Improv with Bill Stern from 2021-06-08T12:52:32

This week, James and Rob are joined by Bill Stern! They talk with Bill about working out, 15 year plans, Out of Bounds fest, twitch, Cigarette Sandwich, moving, and cruise ships. 

Learning to Read with Christine Wines from 2021-06-01T10:30

This week, James and Rob sit down with Christine Wines IN STUDIO! Under the chandelier! It's good to be back. 

We talk with Christine about living, working, and performing in Aus...

Grateful and Upset with Evan Mills from 2021-05-25T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by musician, comedian, and good dude Evan Mills! They talk with Evan about updating sketches, zoom-prov, Just For Laughs, solo material, writing music, his be...

FREE SPAGHETTI with Mike Geraghty from 2021-05-18T10:30

This week, Jame and Rob are joined by the working man's actor Mike Geraghty! They talk with Mike about Dumb John, bartending, tipping, Big Spoon, acting in movies, the important of stage time, a...

Teacher's Pet with Val Agnew from 2021-05-11T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by former campaign manager Val Agnew! They talk with Val about her time in grad school, improv intensives, Zoom-prov, Groupon, co-creating The Trident Network...

In this Economy with Mary Catherine Curran from 2021-05-04T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by the multi-talented Mary Catherine Curran! We talk with MCat about her college improv days, her journey through Second City, The Annoyance Theatre, garbage ...

Like Your Teammates with Shelby Jo Plummer from 2021-04-27T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by therapist in training Shelby Jo Plummer! They talk with Shelby about grad school, therapy (and how it relates to improv), children's podcasts, potty humor,...

Give Me the Weird with Jonald Reyes from 2021-04-20T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by director Jonald Reyes! They talk about tough love, notes, Jonald's start in directing, Second City, resumes, virtual shows, Stir Friday Nights, and the upc...

Brand New Hypothesis with Mary Tilden from 2021-04-13T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by actor/improviser/writer/producer/many hat wearer Mary Tilden! They talk with Mary about her time at boarding school, miss use of power, arts education, mon...

Diamond in the Rough with Ana Silva from 2021-04-06T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by avid test taker Ana Silva! With Ana we talk about her sister, business for actors, understudying, Matt Damon improv, thinking to much, and falling for impr...

The Karate Kid Moment with Matt Miller from 2021-03-30T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by director/producer Matt Miller! We talk with Matt about his start in the business, directing commercials during the pandemic, puppet muscles, bird shows, pr...

We're Back! with Paige Maney from 2021-03-23T10:00

We're back! New episodes! Hooray!

This week, James and Rob are joined by the fantastic Paige Maney! They talk with Paige about being an introvert, her Harold team Nectar, teachin...

Episode Re-Broadcast with Ryan Ben from 2021-03-16T10:00

This week, James and Rob air another rerun. Back in February 2020 (mere weeks before the world shut down), we were joined by rocket arm Ryan Ben. This was originally episode 56. 

Episode Re-Broadcast with Anneliese Toft from 2021-03-09T14:26:15

This week, James and Rob air another rerun. Back in May of 2019, we were joined by director Anneliese Toft. This was originally episode 14.

Anneliese asked us to plug Amber Ruffi...

Episode Re-Broadcast with Abby McEnany from 2021-03-02T11:00

This week, James and Rob air another rerun. Back in April of 2019, we were joined by Abby McEnany. This was originally episode 11!

Check out Abby in Showtime's Listen

Episode Re-Broadcast with E.J. Cameron from 2021-02-23T11:00

This week, James and Rob air another rerun. Back in January of 2019, we were joined by EJ Cameron. This was originally episode four!

Follow EJ on twitter @ Listen

Episode Re-Broadcast with Shantira Jackson from 2021-02-16T11:00

This week, James and Rob air a rerun. Back in August 2019, we were joined by the great Shantira Jackson. Enjoy!

Follow Shantira on twitter @ Listen

The 100th Episode, part two from 2021-02-09T11:00

This week, James and Rob continue to turn the mics on themselves and answer more questions from listeners, friends, and strangers. 

Follow Talking Shop on twitter @ Listen

The 100th Episode, part one from 2021-02-02T11:00

This week, James and Rob turn the mics on themselves and answer questions from listeners, friends, and strangers. 

A huge thanks to all our listeners out there. Thank you for tun...

Swimming Lessons with Alex Bellisle from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's episode, James and Rob are joined by Alex Bellisle. We talk about Harry Potter, teaching, coaching, unions, and She the People.

See Alex in DC with Listen

Playing to your strengths with Adam Schreck from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with soon to be dad Adam Schreck. They talk about failed work, audiences effect on the show, Seinfeld, crossing the line, and the Harlem Globetrott...

Poor Audio with Tyler Davis from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

This week, James and Rob sit down with Tyler Davis to discuss notebooks, sketches that don't work, and song writing. You can see Tyler in Listen

Come down stage with Max Ganet from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

This week, James and Rob sit down with Max Ganet to talk Golden Tee, basketball metaphors, types of players, and Devil's Daughter. We dive deep into shop talk so hold on tight. 

...

Having fun with EJ Cameron from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

This week, James and Rob sit down with EJ Cameron to talk about Pauly Shore, dealing with odd suggestions, scooping grounds, and ship life. 

Following EJ on twitter @ Listen

Cleaning smocks with Jeff Mudoch from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

This week, James and Rob sit down with human cartoon Jeff Murdoch. They discuss the writing process, were ideas come from, cruise ships, and Big Dog t-shirts. See Jeff in the Second City main st...

Being nice with Stacey Smith from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

This week, James and Rob sit down with Stacey Smith to discuss team names, teaching in Europe, and Cold Stone Creamery. Follow Stacey on twitter @ staceinyoface and learn more about her and her sho...

OVER IT with Liz Anderson from 2021-01-26T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by special guest Liz Anderson! They talk with Liz about her writing process, working for Jackbox Games, The Onion fellowship, territory battles, One Woman No ...

Bolder and Stronger with Luis Cortes from 2021-01-19T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by fellow ship talker Luis Cortes! They talk about growing up in Los Angeles, finding love on the open seas, becoming a responsible person, Comedysportz LA an...

Choose Your Own Adventure with Garrett Kelly from 2021-01-12T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by their old pal Garrett Kelly! They talk about first teams, college improv days, tricks and tips, Adult Swim promos, PH Theatre, Devil's Daughter, and heatin...

A Big Life with Irene Marquette from 2021-01-05T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by the wonderful Irene Marquette! They talk about the Curio Show, producing shows, devised theatre, Irene's career path, working with Kay Cannon, and so much ...

The Heart and The Butt with Elizabeth Andrews from 2020-12-29T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Chicago's #1 Manager Elizabeth Andrews! They talk about high school theatre, singing poorly, Ryan Stiles, collaborating, Comet, and how to trust yourself.<...

Ruffling Feathers with Katie Klein from 2020-12-22T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by one of the best: Katie Klein! We talk about The Late 90s, Virgin Daiquiri, business improv, Super Human, Improvised Shakespeare, and so much more.

 ...

Room Laughs with Greg Iwinski from 2020-12-15T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by late night writer Greg Iwinski! They talk about midnight shows, political humor, silent retreats, the balance of comedy and religion, writing packets, and ...

Being a Hack with Dan White from 2020-12-08T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by fellow podcaster Dan White! They talk about missing friends, on-line improv, The Playground, Fudge, writing, and more.

Follow Dan on twitte...

How the Cookie is Made with Terrence Carey from 2020-12-01T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by shaman Terrence Carey! They talk about spirituality, tarot card readings, being creative, dreams, PREACH, working at Second City, and more. This conversati...

Sweating Bullets with Tim Lyons from 2020-11-24T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by follow podcaster Tim Lyons! They talk about counting steps, podcasting, nerves, Fudge, marketing shows, and so much more.

Follow Tim on twi...

A Bunch of Kings with Trent Dozier from 2020-11-17T11:00

This week, James and Rob welcome list maker Trent Dozier! They talk about improv frustrations, midnight shows, inside bits about inside bits, two-prov, moving, and Nia. 

Follow T...

DUNKIN' with Maggie Smith from 2020-11-10T11:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Maggie Smith! They talk about her start in comedy, nerd stuff, moving to LA, producing a weekly news show, Inspector Gadget, and the importance of drinking...

GO VOTE! from 2020-11-03T11:00

No new episode this week. Just a reminder to go vote! 

But in case you are standing in line waiting to vote, here's an old bonus episode to help pass the time. From May 2nd 2019,...

That's a Bit with Jason Geis from 2020-10-27T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by former artistic director now current artistic director Jason Geis! We talk about short form, bits, corporate gigs, running a theater, Harold Teams, the ris...

Friendly Conflict with Javid Iqbal from 2020-10-20T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by trouble maker Javid Iqbal! They talk about Javid's start in comedy, naming kids, raising kids, SNL Dreams, understudying, and being prepared. 

Showing Skin with Vernon Mina from 2020-10-13T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by local father Vernon Mina. They talk about warm ups, Skin-prov, The Annoyance, teaching, raising a child, comedy heroes, feelings, and Scott Adsit. 

...

Comedy is Personal with Jonny Nelson from 2020-10-06T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Christmas Elf Jonny Nelson! They talk about playing with "friends", stock characters, teaching moments, students, and back stage energy.

Fo...

Demanding Compliments with Bri Fitzpatrick from 2020-09-29T05:46:57

This week, James and Rob are joined by pug owner Bri Fitzpatrick! They talk about teaching kids, neediness, Elvis impersonators, Irish Culture, Edinburgh, and improv boys. 

Follo...

The Infinite Scroll with Alex Trepka from 2020-09-22T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by our old friend Alex Trepka. They talk about day jobs, their early days at iO, improv festivals, The Artist's Way, and much more. 

Follow Al...

Escape Fantasies with Tina Arfaee from 2020-09-15T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Tina Arfaee! They talk about work, house boats, forensics, writing for yourself, Matt Damon Improv Listen

The Blow Up Spot with Lauren Williams from 2020-09-09T00:51:58

This week, James and Rob are joined by Jewel-Osco Employee of the Month Lauren Williams! They talk about Halloween, The Teenagers, Del Awards, being on the Harold Commission, and watching thousa...

Hot Dish with Lisa Burton from 2020-09-01T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by midwesterner Lisa Burton! They talk about the improv community in Minneapolis, divorce, goal setting, pan of bars, and ship talk.

Follow Li...

Not Bitter with Sammy Tamimi from 2020-08-26T02:44:59

This week, James and Rob are joined by CIN moderator Sammy Tamimi! They talk about the new landscape of Chicago comedy, the power of improv, the SC Directing Program, coaching, team work, and to...

Arts and Farts with Jordan Stafford from 2020-08-18T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Jessica Simpson fan Jordan Stafford! They talk about Bernie Mac, dream jobs, projects, park hangs, other names, and the art and humor of flatulence. 

Grilling with Matt Myers from 2020-08-11T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by former iO bartender Matt Myers. They talk about pantomime, Matt's beginning in Phoenix, short form, The Teenagers, comedy philosophy, and how to be kinder ...

Donating Angels with Aram Rayzian from 2020-08-04T10:30

This week, James and Rob sit down with Golden Girls fan Aram Rayzian. They talk about commercial work, Mothership, Twisty, deep improv theory, sour patch kids; we're all over the place in this o...

Artistic Excellence with Jules Morales from 2020-07-28T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by actor/improviser/artistic director Jules Morales! They talk about the phases of quarantine, people helping people, the process of opening a brand new theat...

Pants Dot Com with Dan Bulla from 2020-07-21T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by screenwriter and droll prankster Dan Bulla. They talk about Dan's start in Chicago, working in LA, writing for SNL, being friends with Adam Sandler, and mu...

Go Down Swinging with Luke Null from 2020-07-14T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by self proclaimed guitar comic Luke Null! They talk about the comedy community, comedy over zoom, Game of Thrones, bad habits, the importance of writing, and...

FREEZE! with Charles Pettitt from 2020-07-07T21:02:19

This week, James and Rob are joined by the southern gentleman Charles Pettitt! They talk about the improv scene in LA, covid, The Sopranos, Cigarette Sandwich Power Hour, on-line classes; truly ...

Throwing Parties with Ashley Nicole Black from 2020-06-30T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by writer, actor, and twitter-phenom Ashley Nicole Black! They talk about Ashley's time at Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, being the newbie in the writers roo...

Getting Attention with Joe Kwaczala from 2020-06-23T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by stand-up comedian Joe Kwaczala! They talk about producing content, social media, Joe's path to his Comedy Central Half Hour, TGI Fridays, and much more.  Listen

Pulling Up a Chair with Kenzie Elizabeth from 2020-06-16T10:30

This week, James and Rob are joined by the Chicago loving but LA living Kenzie Elizabeth. They talk about PA work in Los Angeles, productivity vs creativity, finding your brand, dog actors, and ...

A Brief Message from 2020-06-02T10:00

Please donate to one or all of these causes:

Black Lives Matter Chicago

Listen

Christian Magicians with Zach Zimmerman from 2020-05-26T10:00

This week, James and Rob continue their virtual tour and head back to New York to talk with former improviser, current stand up Zach Zimmerman! They talk about sleep schedules, the no risk facto...

Make the People Laugh with Julie Marchiano from 2020-05-19T10:30

This week, James and Rob head back to Los Angeles on their virtual tour to chat with Second City ETC Alumni Julie Marchiano. We talk about creativity during the quarantine, zoom improv, performi...

Sliding Doors with Asher Perlman from 2020-05-12T10:00

This week, James and Rob continue their virtual tour and visit New York to talk with Late Show writer Asher Perlman! They about the early days of Groupon, working for Second City, writing packet...

Dance of the Jester with Jamison Webb from 2020-05-05T10:00

This week, James and Rob sit down with Florida's son Jamison Webb! They talk about Jamison's time on the Second City Main Stage, working from home, transition to LA, Jeopardy, and much more.  Listen

The Puma Store with Eddie Mujica from 2020-04-28T10:00

This week, James and Rob sit down with their first virtual guest Eddie Mujica! They talk about Eddie's start in Miami, his journey to Chicago, working with Second City, his trip to Cuba, and muc...

Lil' Deprecating Thoughts with Sarah Shockey from 2020-04-21T10:30

This week, James and Rob sit down with human sunbeam Sarah Shockey! They talk about wrestling, Deep Schwa, Del-Tones, Shock T's, Diamond Days, and so much more. 

To hear more of ...

Organization in Complete Chaos with Abby Beggs from 2020-04-07T10:00

This week, James and Rob sit down with stage manager Abby Beggs! They talk about the difference between SM-ing traditional theatre and sketch comedy, lighting design, vocal technique, how to lis...

I can be whatever the freak I want to be with Yazmin Ramos from 2020-03-31T10:00

This week, James and Rob are joined by Yazmin Ramos! They talk about Boston's She the People, improv names, Matt Damon Improv, feedback, how improv has changed over the years, and so much more. ...

The Great Line with Damon Royster from 2020-03-24T04:59:44

This week, James and Rob sit down with naughty bitch Damon Royster! They talk about Comet, NPR, speech and debate, writing, and hosting.  

See Damon perform with Listen

Where Good Ideas Come From with Brad Pike from 2020-03-17T04:51:41

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with the elusive Brad Pike. They talk about painting, improv rules, producing shows, making lists, and Devil's Daughter. 

See Brad ...

Journey to failure with Ryan Ben from 2020-03-10T04:41:59

This week, James and Rob are joined by super fan Ryan Ben. They talk about marathon running, physical and mental health, feeling loose, responsive vs reactive, and getting back into improv.   Listen

Masculine Art with George Elrod from 2020-03-03T06:02:56

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with art lover George Elrod. They talk about college, art of all kinds, stand up, Comet, and answer the age old question are people funny. 

...

Cover Letters with Kim Howard Johnson from 2020-02-25T15:20

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with Python guy Kim Howard Johnson. They talk about writing for late night, writing for sketch, meeting George Harrison, the early days of iO, meet...

Paths with Adam Archer from 2020-02-18T05:43:34

This week, James and Rob sit down with Adam Archer. They talk about early goals, the future, building teams, auditioning skills, and doing good in the world. 

See Adam in Listen

Comically Injured with Sarah Dell'Amico from 2020-02-11T04:25:55

On this week's episode, James and Rob are joined by Florida's own Sarah Dell'Amico! They talk about panic attacks, show process, bar managing, audience interaction pieces, and so much more.

Name Dropping with Claudia Wallace from 2020-02-04T15:25:32

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with Second City casting director Claudia Wallace! They talk about her early days in the comedy scene, touring in the 90s, killing your ideas, Fred...

The Big Five O from 2020-01-28T05:31:32

This week, we celebrate our 50th episode!!! James and Rob turn the mic on themselves and answer listener questions. A quick thanks for to everyone who has listened. We really appreciate it.

Natural strengths with Becca Barish from 2020-01-21T15:26:07

This week, James and Rob sit down with Becca Barish! They talk about college improv, finding the line, Harold commission work, and setting goals. 

See Becca at iO Chicago with Listen

My wife Jeannie with Jeff Griggs from 2020-01-14T17:20:47

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with Improviser, Actor, Director, Teacher, Facilitator, etc Jeff Griggs! They talk about comedy classes, teaching, Del Close, anti-heroes, and ship...

Polka Bands with Jacob Shuda from 2020-01-07T11:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with musical director extraordinaire Jacob Shuda! They talk about touring, composing music, needle drops, fire fighters, the big compromise, and th...

Not a puppet with Stevie Shale from 2019-12-31T10:30

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with master puppeteer Stevie Shale. They talk about failing big, #feltwednesdays, Paper Machete, community, and moving to Los Angeles. 

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Sense of desperation with Mark Campbell from 2019-12-24T11:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with the nicest guy in Chicago: Mark Campbell. They talk about music improv, the Second City ETC process, comfortability, playing the set, and Ship...

Comedy Good with Eli Coyote Mandel from 2019-12-17T06:21:18

On this week's episode, James and Rob are joined by SNL Alumni Eli Coyote Mandel. They talk about auditioning for and working on Saturday Night Live, early times in Chicago, Sad Boy Houses, and ...

Old Lady Freaks with Atra Asdou from 2019-12-11T06:29:25

On this week, James and Rob sit down with Atra Asdou. They talk about understudying, writing for Second City's ETC stage, audience interactions, and legitimate theatre. 

See Atra...

Confident Idiots with Jordan Lee Cohen from 2019-12-03T06:29:38

This week, James and Rob sit down with Jordan Lee Cohen! They talk about her independent team Randy, her Harold team The Teenagers, comedy theories, pushing limits, and not giving a fuck.

Follow your curiosity with Catharine Savage from 2019-11-26T05:54:02

On this week's episode, James and Rob are joined by Catharine Savage! They talk about coaching, Harold teams, classifications, and Second City Biz-Co. 

See Catharine perform with...

What success looks like with C.J. Tuor from 2019-11-12T11:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with professional riddle writing CJ Tuor. They talk about stand up, getting paid, nerd stuff, the Fast & Furious franchise, and genre improv.

The system works with Kevin Knickerbocker from 2019-11-05T05:16:48

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with iO Program Director Kevin Knickerbocker! They talk about the solo showcase, programming shows, social media, and a little bit about Meridian. ...

Insane amount of confidence with John Patrick Coan from 2019-10-30T14:33:09

On this week's episode, James and Rob are joined by follow podcaster John Patrick Coan. They talk about podcasting, teaching, coaching, jealously, and getting out of your head. 

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Selfish Pitches with Chuck Norment from 2019-10-22T10:00

This week, under the chandelier, James and Rob are joined by the wonderful Chuck Norment. They talk about working for Second City, alternative voices, hometowns, and auditioning for SNL. 

Bad Boys with Rob Wilson from 2019-10-15T10:00

This week under the chandelier, James and Rob are joined by original bad boy Rob Wilson. They talk about touring with Second City, early influences, serious acting, producing shows, and bad boys...

What's Next with Leila Gorstein from 2019-10-09T04:21:20

On this week's episode, James and Rob finally caught their white whale: Leila Gorstein! They talk with Leila about her college improv days, her current improv days, producing/writing/acting in h...

Frasier-ing with Gretchen Eng from 2019-10-01T14:21:30

On this episode, James and Rob sit down with Devil's Daughter's own Gretchen Eng. They talk about harolds, two person improv, supporting others in the community, and Frasier. 

Se...

Getting Back to Normal with Emma Pope from 2019-09-24T10:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with the joyful Emma Pope. They talk about her time on the Second City's Main Stage, having value in comedy, personality quizzes, when you turn it ...

Under the Chandelier with Nate Varrone from 2019-09-17T10:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with Second City Alumni Nate Varrone. They talk about Vegas, steamrolling, mental workouts, daily rituals, and dropping secrets. 

S...

Flexin' with Shantira Jackson from 2019-09-03T02:19:07

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with the one and only Shantira Jackson. We talk about 3Peat, Short form, Second City, writing for TV, and being yourself. 

See Shan...

Woodworking with Griffin Wenzler from 2019-08-27T03:17:14

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down Griffin Wenzler. They talk about bad ideas, touring with The Second City, confidence, rituals, and 31 days of improv. 

Here's the l...

Hot takes with Becca Slack from 2019-08-13T10:00

On week's episode, James and Rob sit down with force of nature Becca Slack. They talk about what it's like to work for The Onion, branded comedy, sketch writing, branded comedy, and SHEBEAST. Listen

Taking a break with Audrey Schiffhauer from 2019-08-07T04:03:37

This week, James and Rob sit down with Audrey Schiffhauer to talk about The Crowd Theatre, block parties, Second City House Co, different styles, when too much improv is too much, and Samuel Fre...

Holding hands with Alex Prichodko & Andrew Lemna from 2019-07-31T04:38:45

On this episode, James and Rob sit down with the founders of the Logan Square Improv Alex Prichodko and Andrew Lemna. They talk about cleaning theaters, getting a start in Indy, the perfect thea...

Hyper involved with Molly Jones from 2019-07-23T10:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with one of the best: Molly Jones! They talk about Hitchcocktails, Clued In, improv structure, the pure Harold, what's it like to be on the Harold ...

Vague Musings with Josh Segovia from 2019-07-16T10:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with follow podcaster Josh Segovia! They talk about college improv, Who's Line is it Anyway, Claymore, NYTF Fest, creating your own stuff, and Home...

Acting like children with Rich Alfonso from 2019-07-09T05:49

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with Rich Alfonso. They talk about early influences, the trouble with understudying, and a lot of ship talk. 

See Rich live on stag...

Asking for things with Eddie Klinker from 2019-07-02T09:30

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with improviser/comic book writer Eddie Klinker. They talk about asking for things, naming times, what to do after improv, and not taking things to...

Myth-busting with Beth Kligerman from 2019-06-25T05:49:11

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with The Second City's theatrical casting director and director of alumni relations Beth Kligerman. They talk about producing shows, how she got st...

Glad-handing with Andy Junk from 2019-06-18T17:57:51

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with Andy Junk. Though they are not drunk on a trunk, they do talk about marketing yourself, jealousy, Improvised Shakespeare, Harold teams, cockne...

Made for celebrity with Jack Felker from 2019-06-12T03:12:31

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with the delightful Jack Felker. They talk about the writing process for Cards Against Humanity, the legendary mom video, SHEBEAST, and being yours...

Being professional with Waleed Mansour from 2019-06-05T10:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with soon to be LA native Waleed Mansour. They talk about professionalism, making an independent team, the CBS Diversity showcase, and home break i...

Slow Steps with Matt Hovde from 2019-05-28T11:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with teacher/director Matt Hovde. They talk about classes, directing, auditioning, and ...

Exit Interview with Stephen Kropa from 2019-05-22T13:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with sad boi Stephen Kropa. They talk about self loathing, dangling the carrot, stage confidence, creating your own material, and Kropa's final tho...

Comedy equations with Anneliese Toft from 2019-05-14T12:30

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with Second City director Anneliese Toft. They talk about general auditions, how scenes work, how to "argue" with your scene partner, and being an ...

Sharing Secrets with Laurel Krabacher from 2019-05-07T12:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with an absolute gem: Laurel Krabacher. They talk about themes, failed sketches, the writing process within Second City and other theatres, and Bra...

Talking Presidents with Clayton, James, and Rob from 2019-05-02T12:00

A little bonus episode where Clayton, James, and Rob talk about presidents. Well...mostly about Teddy Roosevelt. Enjoy!

Desperately successful with Clayton Margeson from 2019-04-30T12:00

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with man about town Clayton Margeson. They talk about the Late 90s, Dragon Ball Z, Anti-Comedy, and group games.

See Clayton with <...

High and funky with Abby McEnany from 2019-04-24T06:42:05

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with one of the best people they know: Abby McEnany. They discuss the Chicago improv scene back in the late 90s, getting notes, the Sundance film f...

The Great Debate with TJ Jagodowski & Beth Melewski from 2019-04-17T07:09:58

On this week's episode, James and Rob sit down with TJ Jagodowski and Beth Melewski, two legends of the Chicago improv community. We talk about acronyms, high school theatre, the great debate be...

Pretty Things with Olivia Nielsen from 2019-04-09T12:00

This week, James and Rob sit down with Olivia Nielsen to discuss touring, ghosts, murder hotels, and working at a box office. (this was recorded on March 31st 2019)

You ...

Music stuff with Arne Parrott from 2019-04-02T12:00

This week, James and Rob sit down with musically talented Arne Parrott. Arne is a Music Director around town. We discuss the history of pianos, playing for ballerinas, and providing music for im...

Warming up with Alex Garday from 2019-03-26T11:00

This week, James and Rob sit down with Alex Garday to discuss warm-ups, breaking on stage, running a theatre, and emojis. Plus everyone's favorite segment: SHIP TALK. 

You can se...