Industry Standard w/ Barry Katz

In this Ask Me Anything episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, Barry dives into practical advice for comedians at every stage of their career. He shares insights on writing and originality, drawing lessons from comedy legends like Dave Chappelle, Jim Jefferies, George Carlin, Wanda Sykes, Louis C.K., and Steven Wright. With personal stories, deep industry experience, and reflections on evol...

In this episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, viral YouTube pioneer Ed Bassmaster shares his incredible journey from working retail at an AT&T store to becoming one of the most recognizable character comedians on the internet. He dives deep into the origins of his iconic alter egos and creations like Always Teste, Chip Diamond, Skippy, Tequila, and Mumbles—many inspired by real-life en...

In this gripping episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, legendary actor Michael Madsen opens up like never before. From almost missing out on his iconic role as Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs to improvising unforgettable moments on set, Madsen shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from working with Quentin Tarantino, Harvey Keitel, Jennifer Tilly, and many more. He reflects on how Holl...

In Memory of Peter Engel June 30, 1936 - March 4, 2025In this classic rerelease episode, Legendary TV producer Peter Engel joins Barry Katz to share wild stories from his career, spanning his early days around Saturday Night Live to creating the iconic TV hits like Saved by the Bell, California Dreams, and City Guys. Engel reveals how he discovered stars like Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Tiffani-Amber Thi...

In this emotional and insightful episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz sits down with comedy club mogul Cris Italia to talk about building “The Stand,” coping with loss, and shaping the careers of comics like Pete Davidson, Andrew Schulz, and Nikki Glaser. Italia reflects on the influence of late comedy legends including Patrice O’Neal, Greg Giraldo, and Mike DeStefano, as well as the enduring...

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 Dav...

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 w...

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 als...

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 peo...

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...

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 work...

In Memory of Marty Callner August 25, 1946-March 17, 2025 In 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 Roc...

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...

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 entertain...

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz chats with comedian and actor JB Smoove, as he opens up about the mindset that’s fueled his success. JB shares how his "Teflon mentality" keeps him focused on self-growth, and how he navigates opportunities—turning moments that seem like luck into career-shaping moves. He shares stories from his youth - growing up in a family that always...

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz sits down with comedian Pablo Francisco for an in-depth conversation about his journey in comedy. Pablo shares how he landed his first agent at rock bottom, his proudest moment performing for just eight people who changed his life, and the time he unknowingly took GHB and ended up in the hospital. He also opens up about the struggles of addiction,...

Talent manager Barry Katz sits down with esteemed writer Perry Rein for an insightful conversation. Rein shares his journey, working odd jobs such as Al Pacino’s driver to getting fired on his birthday from his first big PA gig to winning an Emmy. Rein found his way through a writing assistant job and with the help of long time collaborator and partner, Gigi McCreery. He imparts words of wisdom ev...

In this episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz, Emmy nominated comedian talent manager and TV/Film Producer imparts wisdom onto those who wish to pursue a career in entertainment. Barry shares with his viewers common misconceptions about the comedy industry, advice for new comedians, and how to find a balance when writing jokes. Watch the podcast on YouTube ⁠⁠Industry Standard Video Podcast with...

In this classic episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz sits with stand-up comedian and podcaster Marc Maron for an engaging and candid conversation, reflecting on their early days in the New York comedy scene, and Marc's success and evolution in stand-up and pioneering the podcast format with his WTF podcast. The episode also dives into some unresolved history, as Barry and Marc address lingeri...

Barry sits down with Louis Faranda, the esteemed talent buyer of the iconic Carolines Comedy Night Club, for an engaging conversation about the evolution of the stand-up comedy industry. Louis offers a captivating glimpse into the vibrant early days of the New York comedy scene, recounting his journey from Catch a Rising Star to his tenure at Carolines and his experiences curating some of the indu...

In this episode, comedian and actor Ronny Chieng sits with talent manager and producer Barry Katz, to share his journey in stand-up comedy to becoming a correspondent on The Daily Show, and landing his breakout role in Crazy Rich Asians, offering behind-the-scenes insights, and reflecting on how his multicultural background has shaped his comedy and career. Ronny opens up about navigating cultural...

In this AMA episode of Industry Standard, talent manager and TV/Film Producer, Barry Katz, tackles your burning questions about succeeding in comedy and the entertainment business. Barry answers questions on how to get a script made in Hollywood, where emerging comedians should go to connect with others comedians, and reveals the traits he looks for in potential clients, as well as one of the best...

In this classic Industry Standard interview, and final episode of 2024, Barry sits down with legendary radio personality, comedian, and podcasting trailblazer Adam Carolla. Adam opens up about his remarkable journey, starting with his humble beginnings as a carpenter by day while honing his comedy chops at The Groundlings by night. He shares how unconventional gigs—like teaching comedy-infused tra...

In this AMA episode of Industry Standard, talent manager and TV/Film Producer, Barry Katz, tackles your burning questions about succeeding in comedy, citing comedians like Louie Anderson, Roseanne Barr, Brad Williams and more. Barry breaks down the most common mistakes early comedians make and offers practical strategies to overcome writer’s block. He shares a bold, fresh take on addressing cancel...