There It Is Podcast

NYC stand-up comedian, Ophira Eisenberg (Ask Me Another) joined us for a great talk! Jason talks with stand-up comedian and former host of NPR's 'Ask Me Another,' Ophira about her early career path in Canada before moving to NYC, and how she transitioned from writing to stand-up comedy after college. The conversation delves into the dynamics of performing in different settings, maintaining structu...

In this episode, Jason and the 'Of the Show' gang delve into their latest bracket: Obscure Horror Movies! They discuss a variety of modern and art house horror films, horror comedies, and even found footage gems. The crew shares their tough choices, personal favorites, and final selections as they navigate through the brackets. Highlights include mentions of It Follows, House of the Devil, and Lat...

We went to Ireland and we tell you all about it! Jason and Justina chronicle their adventure through Dublin, Belfast, and Galway! They talk about driving on the left side of the road, Guinness and lovely pubs, the wonderful sights like Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway, the rich history of Ireland including the castles and The Troubles, and find out about every single place Bono drinks a pint....

We talked to NYC improv staple, Jon Monje! Jason talks to improviser Jon Monje about his extensive journey in the world of improv. Jon shares his experiences starting at UCB in 2008, becoming a significant figure at the theater, and transitioning to the Magnet Theater post-pandemic. They discuss the unique, positive community at Magnet, the contrasting phases of improv enthusiasm over the years, a...

In this episode we take it all the way back to 17th-century London to discuss the case of John Twyn and how it relates to America today. Twyn's story is about the harsh control of King Charles II and the Church of England and the restraints their control posed on religion, speech, and the press. We learn how those crackdowns ultimately influenced the freedoms enshrined in the America’s First Amend...

We have a great talk with NYC-based comedian and improviser Rob Penty. Jason and Rob discuss their time together on the team Glitter at the Magnet Theater and Rob's other Magnet improv teams, Sexy Baby and Wrath. Rob reflects on his initial foray into standup comedy and why he eventually gravitated towards improv, highlighting the supportive community aspect of improv versus the often isolating st...

In this Pop Talk, Jason sits down with 'Of the Show Fellas,' Trey and Rob, to discuss a variety of pop culture topics. They dive into the 'Scrubs' revival, sharing their excitement for returning cast members and reflecting on the original series. The conversation then shifts to 'Saturday Night Live,' examining the recent cast changes and new additions. Finally, they discuss whether franchises shou...

In this episode, we chat with comedian, actress, and musician Maxi Witrak. Maxi shares her journey from entertainment journey that led her to Los Angeles to pursue acting, her unexpected foray into standup comedy, and the remarkable shift from being an equestrian to exploring her creative passions. She discusses the challenges of balancing multiple artistic pursuits, the joy of teaching stand-up a...

In this mini ep, Jason addresses the concept of separating art from the artist when the latter faces allegations of misconduct. Jason explores how people often respond by either dismissing or defending the artist based on their work and provides insights into the complexity of continuing to enjoy art when its creator's actions are known. He suggests a thoughtful, principled approach to how you eng...

In this mini episode, Jason shares practical steps on how to build a comedy community, whether in a town with no existing scene or an established one. Jason emphasizes identifying what the community lacks, understanding your own style, the importance of getting people involved, and establishing trust within the community. The episode also honors the late Frank Spitznagel, a pillar in the musical i...

In this mini episode, Jason talks about how truth is utilized in comedy, namely in improv. Truth in Comedy is one of the main principles in improv, but the idea of using or telling the truth is not only familiar to improv. The truth, what we all know is real or what we know to be happening is something you have to get right for comedy to land. Jason mostly discusses improv, but he also talks about...

In this special 400th episode, Brother of the Show, Trey takes over as host to interview Jason Farr! They discuss Jason's early life that led to him wanting to be an actor, how he was first exposed to the stage, performing comedy when he was in elementary school, and what he learned in the Theater and Mass Communications department at Winthrop University. Jason shares insights about his time worki...

We talk to our dear friend, Hailey McAfee, a writer, director, and actor in Los Angeles! In this episode, actor, director, and writer Hailey McAfee joins the show to discuss her career in theater. Hailey shares her journey from studying theater, to moving to NYC, to getting into New York's improv scene. Jason also talks to her about her recent success with a modern re-imagining of 'Mother Courage...

We talk to comedian and video creator, Willy Appelman, about his work and his show, 'A Gaggle!' We had a great chat with comedian and creator Willy who delves into his journey through the world of improv, starting from his early days at Second City and Magnet Theater, to making viral TikTok videos and producing sketch comedy for Business Insider and Fast Company. He shares insights into his method...

Improvisers (and friends of the show) Greg Tavares and Amber Nash have written a book called "Improv for Couples." It written to help couples spark or rekindle their sense of play. Jason and "Wife of the Show," Justina, take you through the first lesson in the book to give you a feel for it. It's a simple, fun chat about the bits and silly gags they've done to make each other laugh throughout thei...

In this episode, the "Of the Show Gang" talk Summer Movies and celebrate Jaws and Back to the Future! Wife of the Show, Justina, Brother of the Show, Trey, and Best Friend of the Show, Rob, join Jason to talk all that POP about the anniversaries of Jaws and Back to the Future, the big movies of the Summer so far, make predictions on what will be this Summer's big movie, and discuss the New York Ti...

We talked to award-winning comedian, Tom Hearn! Tom Hearn is an award-winning sketch comedian, actor, drag performer and director living in New York City. Tom shares his journey from growing up in New Brunswick, Canada, to tearing up comedy stages across North America. Tom shares how his love for theater started early and how joining an improv team in high school opened the door to a lifelong pass...

We talked to improviser and instructor, Jamie Rivera! Jason and Jamie met at the Magnet Theater where Jamie is an instructor. He's also a performer on one of the theater's flagship shows, The Armando Diaz Experience (aka ADX). Jamie tells Jason about how he got into improv, what he learned performing on a cruise ship, and how that experience impacted him. The two also talk about the importance of...

We talk to author John Vorhaus about creativity and comedy! In this episode, we chat with the prolific author and writer John Vorhaus. John shares insights from his extensive career in sitcom writing and teaching. He discusses his journey into writing for sitcoms, developing 'Married with Children' overseas, his significant teaching endeavors, and his thoughts on managing creative anxiety. John em...

In this episode we talk to the amazing singer/songwriter, Brooke White! We absolutely love her! In this insightful chat, Brooke White and Jason discuss their longstanding online friendship and delve into Brooke's experiences since she first blew up on the scene, her creative journey, and the challenges she faced balancing multiple projects and personal life. Brooke shares insights on the discomfor...

Author and storyteller Adam Linn joins us for a thrilling conversation! Adam shares his fascinating journey in comedy and storytelling. Adam recounts his start in the entertainment industry, inspired by NYU classmates, and details how he found his comedic voice through mentorship and personal challenges. He discusses his show 'Sped Kid,' which reflects his experiences as an outsider navigating lif...

Donna Steele joins Jason to discuss...THE STATE OF COMEDY! In this episode, comedian Donna Steele catches up with Jason to talk about what they're tired of seeing in improv and more. She discusses her journey in the improv scene and performing at UCB with various Harold teams. The two share insights into the importance of projecting the team's energy when introing shows and the pitfalls of common...

In this episode, comedian Amanda Maryanna Gordon shares her journey through comedy and content creation. Amanda discusses starting out in comedy, why she studied Film and TV at NYU Tisch, and the evolution of her YouTube channel that she started in sixth grade. She opens up about her transition from beauty videos to comedic content and reflects on the differences she's noticed about creating conte...

We're talking all that POP with a new bracket of the best SNL hosts! The "Of the Show Fellas" are back joining Jason to talk about their favorite hosts of Saturday Night Live! PLUS, we have a new bracket and it's one of our toughest! They fellas show love to some all-time great hosts of SNL and select their top pick for best host. It's not easy task as there are so many great actors, entertainers,...

We were joined by comedian Evan Forde Barden for a great talk on pursuing comedy. Evan joins the podcast to discuss his extensive 21-year journey in improv and sketch comedy. Evan shares his early days doing improv at Fairfield University and his subsequent experiences with renowned groups like 'Bodywork' and 'Young Douglass.' He opens up about navigating the improv scene in New York, his tenure w...