(Improvised) Intelligence from Noah Vargas

If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes to make it in stand-up comedy, this episode breaks it all down. In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with stand-up comedian Reece Muniz to talk about the real grind behind comedy; open mics, bombing, building material, producing shows, and navigating social media in the algorithm era. This isn’t surface-level advice. We get into: How comedians...

In this episode, comedian Zach Abeyta joins the podcast to talk comedy, culture, and the state of modern entertainment. From the collapse of Marvel’s post-Endgame direction to DC’s rebooted Batman and the rise of horror gaming, Zach breaks down pop culture from the perspective of a working stand-up comic navigating the industry in real time. We also get into 28 Years Later, franchise fatigue, and...

In this conversation, Nevin and I discuss modern geopolitics, U.S. foreign policy, and global power dynamics. The discussion explores Iran, Israel, historical doctrines, and how international influence actually works. In this episode, we dive into a wide-ranging and unfiltered discussion about global politics, foreign intervention, and the structure of modern power. Topics include:U.S. foreign pol...

Sean is a Christian Apologist and podcaster. What is the Abomination of Desolation —and has it already happened, or is it still coming? In this episode, we explore one of the most debated topics in biblical prophecy, diving into the books of Revelation and Daniel to unpack the meaning behind the “Abomination of Desolation.” We discuss the destruction of the temple in 70 AD, the concept of prophecy...

In this episode, we sit down with a comic shop owner to break down the REAL issues with modern superhero films, from DC’s dark tone to Marvel’s overuse of humor. We dive deep into:Why James Gunn’s DC direction is controversialThe difference between Batman and Superman storytellingWhy fans want Spider-Man to sufferThe problem with modern comic book writing and adaptationsBehind-the-scenes insight i...

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Bregman , Bernalillo County District Attorney and candidate for Governor of New Mexico, for a wide-ranging conversation on crime, policy, and the future of the state. We discuss the rise in juvenile violent crime, the fentanyl crisis, bail reform, and how New Mexico’s justice system is evolving. Sam also shares his perspective on ICE enforcement, constitutiona...

What does it actually take to make it as a stand-up comedian? In this episode, we sit down with a rising comic who shares the raw truth about chasing comedy in Los Angeles—from burning through his life savings to getting a life-changing opportunity from Russell Peters. We get into: Moving to LA on a visa with no backup plan Losing money and struggling to survive Getting into “development” at The C...

The fitness industry is broken… and it changed the course of Natalie's life. In this episode, we break down what’s really going wrong in modern health and fitness, from fake influencers and diet culture to the rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic, and why so many people feel stuck, burned out, and confused. But this conversation goes deeper than fitness. After experiencing firsthand the emot...

In this episode of Improvised Intelligence, we sit down with New Mexico actress Monique Candelaria, known for her role in HBO’s Lovecraft Country, to talk about the real business of Hollywood. From major network television to comic book appearances in Suicide Squad Blaze, Moni shares what it actually takes to survive as a working actor. Filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico 🎙️ Subscribe for weekly con...

In this episode, we sit down with Gregg Hull , mayor of Rio Rancho , for a conversation about leadership, public safety, infrastructure, and the future of New Mexico . Hull explains how Rio Rancho has approached growth, crime, and business development through data-driven planning and local decision-making. He shares why he believes strong communities—not one-size-fits-all policies—are the key to s...

Stand-up comedian Eddie Stephens joins the podcast for a hilarious and honest conversation about parenting, anxiety, and the realities of chasing a career in comedy. We talk about raising kids with dark humor, whether comedians subconsciously create chaos for material, dealing with mental health, and Eddie’s unexpected success with his rugby podcast Rugby Rant & Banter . This episode covers: L...

From growing up in difficult circumstances to finding purpose, discipline, and direction through boxing, Leonid opens up about the struggles, sacrifices, and mindset that shaped him into the fighter he is today. In this episode, we cover:🥊 How Leonid first discovered boxing💥 The challenges he faced early on🧠 Developing a champion mindset🌍 Leaving home to chase his dreams🔥 Life lessons from th...

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Mark Ellis as he takes us behind the curtain of stand-up comedy , the world of Marvel movies , and the universe of Star Wars . From bombing at his first open mic to headlining shows and navigating Hollywood premieres, Mark shares the lessons, struggles, and hilarious moments that shaped his career. We dive into Marvel secrets , the evolution of Star Wars l...

What does it really look like when someone serves in public office and grinds through open mics, late-night shows, and long legislative sessions? In this episode, Representative Madinah pulls back the curtain on the unique, chaotic, and surprisingly hilarious life of a politician-comedian. We dive into:• The double life of a Delaware State Rep who performs stand-up• What goes down during legislati...

What does it really take to survive stand-up comedy? In this episode of Improvised Intelligence , Mikey joins the show for a raw, honest conversation about the realities of comedy, art, and independence. From bombing on stage in New York to navigating Austin’s comedy explosion, this episode dives into what separates real comedians from people chasing the idea of being funny. We talk about learning...

🎬 Dive into the world of indie filmmaking with Derek Bauder! In this episode, Danny shares his journey creating low-budget horror films, the challenges of directing your own scripts, and the passion that drives his projects. From his upcoming film Around Midnight —a dark, family-focused horror—to his love of DVD and 4K movie collecting, this conversation is packed with insights for filmmakers, ho...

Actor, comedian, and former county commissioner Steven Michael Quezada joins the show for an in-depth conversation about his journey from stand-up stages to the set of Breaking Bad —and now into entrepreneurship with the launch of Quezada’s Comedy Club & Cantina . Steven shares how he broke into comedy, what it was like playing DEA Agent Steven Gomez, the unexpected turn into politics, and why...

In this episode, we sit down with Emily Zumwalt — a talented SAG actress, model, and costume designer whose creative path has taken her through film sets, fashion shoots, and the world of character design. Emily shares how she found her way into acting, what it's like balancing multiple careers in entertainment, and the behind-the-scenes work that brings characters to life through costume. We...

Comedians Josh Canada and AJ DeLeon join the show for a fast, funny, and absolutely unhinged debate about the greatest comedic actors of all time. From iconic movie moments to underrated legends, we break down what makes a performer truly hilarious — both on stage and on screen. In this episode we talk about: The real best comedic actors of all time Comedy movies that shaped stand-up Performance s...

Comedian Loy Lee joins Improvised Intelligence to share what it’s really like living life on the road as a traveling stand-up comedian . From performing in dive bars to big city comedy clubs, Loy talks about chasing stage time in all 50 states , building a career in comedy, and the hilarious (and sometimes brutal) moments that come with it. 🎙️ In this episode: The grind of being a traveling comedi...

Viral content creator News Guy Johnny joins the show to talk about his rise on social media, covering Albuquerque’s mayoral race , and life after leaving the Army . From breaking local news stories to building a digital following, Johnny shares how he turned reporting into a platform that blends humor, honesty, and viral moments. 🎙️ Hosted by Improvised Intelligence , where comedy meets culture, p...

In this episode of Improvised Intelligence , we roll into the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) with two dedicated practitioners — Alejandro Tagle (Purple Belt) and Gerald Rivera (Brown Belt) . They share their stories about how they got started, the grind of daily training, and what it really takes to develop both the physical discipline and mental toughness that Jiu Jitsu demands. We dig into:...

Jake and Jayme Semeniuk join the show for an episode full of muscle, madness, and movie talk . From powerlifting and bodybuilding culture to pro wrestling chaos , superhero burnout , and horror movie favorites , this one’s a heavy lift of laughs and hot takes. We talk about what it’s really like being a powerlifting couple , share funny gym stories , and debate which superheroes could actually sur...

Reacting live to the 2025 Albuquerque Mayoral DebateFollow us here! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/46eFKCrHGNkWejeT8XpcjTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/improvisedintelligencepod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/improvisedintelligencepod/Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/improvisedintelligencepodProduced by Royal Tier Productions LLCIntro/Outro Theme written by Toby GomezSupport the p...

In this episode of Improvised Intelligence , host Noah Vargas sits down with Alexander M. M. Uballez , former U.S. Attorney and candidate for Mayor of Albuquerque in the 2025 election . Find Alex on Instagram @alexanderuballez and on his website alexforalbuquerque.comUballez shares his vision for the city’s future — tackling public safety, housing affordability, homelessness, and immigrant protect...