The Art of Bombing: A Comedy Podcast
In the Art of Bombing podcast, comedians talk about comedy and how it does not always go as planned. Hosts Dan Bublitz Jr & Larry Smith talk to comedians about their worst performances and give tips on what to do and NOT to do when performing and how to cope with failure. Whether you are an aspiring comedian or a comedy nerd, The Art of Bombing has something for everyone! Ranked in the top 100 on Apple Podcast Comedy charts and top 50 on Good Pod's Stand-Up Comedy podcast charts, the Art of Bombing is available wherever you get your podcasts.Become a...
Between Bombs Ep 317 Callbacks - Improv Vs Standup and Ghosts
In this episode of the Art of Bombing presents: Between Bombs, Dan and Larry call back episode 317 with Douglas Widick. They break down earning a laugh versus cheating a laugh (many examples arise), and how building synergy in an improv group is similar to building synergy with the audience. The two of them dive deep into the importance of having the act before going off script, Dan shares his thoughts on why stand-ups should consider taking improv classes, and theatre ghosts!
If you have a spooky story, send it in or post it on the Bomb Squad Facebook...
Douglas Widick (North Coast) - It's All About The Relationship
Dan gets the chance to talk with sketch and improv artist Douglas Widick. They talk Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the difference between English and Scottish audiences, the relationship between improv and standup, making sure you “have an act” before you riff, the fun of watching a GOOD bomb, and theatre ghosts! Additionally, the fact that sometimes you're playing for an audience of three or a sold-out crowd, earning a laugh versus cheating one, and more!
Douglas Widick
Douglas Widick is a founding member of the Hip-Hop Improv group, North Coast, which was named one o...
Between Bombs Ep 316 Callbacks - Record Everything
In this episode of Between Bombs: Callbacks, Dan and Larry revisit their conversation with Ben Katzner for a lively and insightful chat about growth on stage. They explore the fine line between confidence and cockiness (featuring a hilarious pigeon chess analogy), and how recording your sets can actually build confidence. Plus, they dive into why stepping outside your comfort zone is one of the best ways to grow as a performer.
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Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a...
Ben Katzner (Sirus XM) - Record Everything
In this episode, Dan is joined by Minneapolis-based comedian Ben Katzner, and they discuss actively avoiding each other, how you can get stuck in a “pocket” in a larger scene, and the importance of getting out of that comfort zone. In addition, Dan and Ben talk about the plague of vanishing clubs, allowing overconfidence to get in the way of doing a good show, being able to read the room and positioning yourself right with the audience, (once again) picking the right clothes, and the eternity that is 27 minutes of silence and the loneliness that follows. Additionally, the importance of recor...
Between Bombs Ep 315 Callbacks - Are You Likeable
In this Between Bombs: Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry circle back to Ep 315 with Taylor Soderborg for a lively chat about comedy’s secret weapons—likability and trust. They break down how reading the room can turn a good set into a great one, and why sometimes your set isn’t nearly as bad as you thought. With laughs, insights, and a few surprises, this episode is all about finding confidence on stage. Tune in to learn how to win over a crowd and maybe even yourself!
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Taylor Soderborg (Laugh Out Loveland Comedy Festival) - Pay The Comedy Gods
Taylor discusses starting as a comedy nomad, the idea that comedy has to balance itself, taking responsibility for the audience (even if the audience is bad and should feel bad), and learning to read the room. She and Dan also discuss weird audiences, ensuring you’re in charge of the room, and building likability and trust so the audience will follow you.
Taylor Soderborg
Taylor Soderborg is a doctor turned comic. With both an MD and a PhD, she is proof you can go to too much school. Blending education and humor, she...
Between Bombs Ep 314 Callbacks - Do Your Research!
In this Between Bombs: Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry circle back to their conversation with Joe Scrocca from Episode 314! They dig into why solid notes are a comedian’s secret weapon, the value of researching local references to land stronger laughs, and what makes for an effective writing process. It’s a fun deep dive that blends practical comedy tips with plenty of insight for both new and seasoned comics.
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Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Call...
Joe Scrocca - Learn Your Geography
Dan returns with New Jersey comic Joe Scrocca. They cover everything from biker bars to making sure you do your regional research before a road gig, and ways to put the comedy puzzle together. They also discuss the art of exaggeration while maintaining realism, the value of good notes, and Joe’s whiteboard process.
Joe Scrocca
Joe started doing comedy on 12/14/2023—no prior experience in entertainment. He woke up one morning in December '23 and was tired of dating crazy women. Joe wanted to do something fun, so why not stand-up comedy? He wa...
Dan and Larry - After Prom? More Like After Bomb!
It’s the season finale, and what better way to wrap it up than with Dan and Larry talking about the comedy nightmare that is the after-prom! Is it a rite of passage or a special torture you should say “no” to? They bring up crowd work, Bill Hicks, Robin Williams, and the importance of The Act before you try improvisation on stage. Also, Larry’s new nickname, Dan’s accomplishment, and some other silliness that these two get sidetracked on.Â
Don’t forget, as a season finale push, the first ten people who leave five stars with an actual rev...
Between Bombs Ep 312 Callbacks - Why Are There so Many Of Me?
In this Between Bombs: Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry revisit their chat with the hilarious Jim Tews from Episode 312! They dive into the strange experience of hearing other comics who sound just like you (and how that lights a fire under your feet), the superhuman levels of embarrassment comedians endure on the regular, and how comedy clubs that used to pop off seven nights a week just aren't what they used to be. It's a laugh-filled look at the evolution of comedy and the mental toughness it takes to survive it.
Art of Bombing:
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JIm Tews (Just For Laughs) - Just Another Day at the Office
Jim Tews has spent more than half his life on stage making people laugh. From being inspired by Dave Attell’s “Insomniac” to his first days doing comedy in a strip mall sports bar, Jim knew he had to do it to keep from losing his mind.Â
He and Dan chat about the level of judgment comedians are under and how it would horrify a “normal person,” bigger markets equal higher stakes, and the hell that college gigs can be, especially when pizza is the bigger draw.
Jim Tews
Jim Tews is a co...
Between Bombs Ep 311 Callbacks - Your Persona
What makes a joke work—and what do you do when it doesn’t? In this episode of the Art of Bombing Between Bombs: Callbacks, Dan and Larry call back episode 311 with Kimberly Koester! They break down joke mechanics, how to craft a stage persona that feels authentic, and why a bombed bit might be the best thing for your growth. Finally, we figure out why Larry is so spicy this week!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/albu...
Kimberly Koester (Kill Tony) - A Lil Kill Tony Bump
Kimberly Koester is a comic with a unique perspective—one she works at! She discusses her “Killy Tony Bump,” the Mothership open mic, the importance of forced networking, and how important the book “How to Kill at Comedy” has been to her. She also touches on the comic’s persona, handling a joke that doesn’t land, and the importance of learning joke structure.
Kimberly Koester
Kimberly’s comedy explores themes of starting over, single parenting, and navigating life’s unexpected turns. With a style that’s both reflective and surprising. Kimberly’s performances are aut...
Between Bombs Ep 310 Callbacks - Quality Over Quantity
In this episode of the Art of Bombing Between Bombs: Callbacks, Dan and Larry call back episode 310 with Clay Foley! They drop truth bombs (and punchlines) about marketing smarter, not harder. Dan and Larry dive into why quality beats quantity every time—and how to stop wasting time on things that don’t move the needle. Laugh, learn, and level up!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://link...
Clay Foley (Comedy to the Rescue) - No Time To Waste
Dan sits down with Clay Foley, ex-animal cruelty investigator, current standup comic, and creator of “Comedy to the Rescue,” a charity organization that helps animal shelters across the country raise money via comedy shows. Clay brings up starting comedy “late” in life, realizing there is no time to waste, and carving out your niche.
They also discuss letting the good in a show outweigh the bad, the fear of not being memorable, and the importance of the business side of show business. They also touch on finding that ever-important niche, good marketing, quality over quantity, and Clay’s background...
Between Bombs Ep 309 Callbacks - Leading with Curiosity
In this episode of the Art of Bombing Between Bombs: Callbacks, Dan and Larry call back episode 309 with New Zealand comedian Taylor Ruddle! They explore the power of leading with curiosity, especially when facing down hecklers, and uncover how finding inspiration outside of stand-up can fuel your funniest material. Get ready for a thoughtful, international twist on comedy wisdom!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://linktr.ee...
Taylor Ruddle (New Zealand Comedy Guild) - Vexed by the Judy Garland Special
New Zealand comedian Taylor Ruddle educates Dan on slang terms, the differences between American and New Zealand standup comedy, and maybe why pain pills, booze, and comedy don’t mix! They also have a long conversation about some of their favorite shows to come out of New Zealand, like “What We Do In the Shadows,” “Our Flag Means Death,” and the brilliance that is Taika Waititi.Â
Taylor Ruddle
Taylor Ruddle is a stand-up comedian from New Zealand & host of the Ruddle Me This! Podcast.
https://taylorruddle.carrd.co/
Art of Bo...
Between Bombs Ep 308 Callbacks - What's In the Contract?
In this explosive Between Bombs Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry call back episode 308 with Lynn Harris to blow the lid off one of comedy’s most important tools: the performance contract! From locking in payment to nailing down set times and show details, they dive deep into the must-haves every comic should include—because the only surprises on show night should be in your set, not your paycheck.
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Website: http...
Lynn Harris (Gold Comedy) - The Love of a Reasonable Bedtime
Lynn Harris has been either in standup comedy or has been comedy adjacent for most of her life. From lessons she learned in Boston and New York from Wanda Sykes (well, Wanda Sykes adjacent), to nightmare gigs involving Muppet Babies (well, Muppet Baby adjacent), she and Dan meander through a couple of solid bombing stories. They also chat quickly about Key West, the need for a good team, and solid communication. and the value of a reasonable bedtime.
Lynn Harris
Lynn Harris is a culture-shifting producer, award-winning journalist, and author/co-author of...
Between Bombs Ep 307 Callbacks - It's Okay To Say No!
In this hilarious and insightful Between Bombs episode, Dan and Larry revisit episode 307 with Morgan Gallo to dive deeper into the unexpected truth that someone is always listening when you talk. They unpack the fragile magic of comedy, the power of self-awareness, and why sometimes the smartest move in this business is simply saying no. It’s a callback-packed convo full of laughs, lessons, and behind-the-scenes wisdom!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Website: https://ww...
Morgan Gallo (High Plains Comedy Festival) - Et Tu Shrek?
Is this an emotional roller coaster! Morgan related the tale of being asked to do a set at a female empowerment festival headlined by that famous female band…Smashmouth? It’s a story about how you can do everything right as a comic and still everything goes exceedingly wrong. She and Dan also talk about comedy classes, the fact that someone is ALWAYS listening, when to say no, and how important that is, and this delicate art form.
Morgan Gallo
Morgan is a Denver-based comedian, dancer, and actress. She hosts the 'My Body...
Between Bombs Ep 306 Callbacks - Don't Do Bringer Shows!
In this Between Bombs Callbacks episode, Dan and Larry revisit the wild ride of Episode 306 with Shanna Christmas! They dig into the dark side of bringer shows and how they give comics a false sense of success, the bizarre rise of nude comedy shows (seriously, why is this a trend?), and the ups and downs of jumping into new comedy scenes. It's raw, real, and packed with hot takes—don’t miss it!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com...
Shanna Christmas (Comedy Dynamics) - Naked Shock Collar Comedy
Buckle up—this episode is packed and stacked with insights you won’t want to miss! Shanna and Dan dive into the surprising danger of crushing it early in your comedy career, and the gut-punch of bombing months later. They break down the bizarre comedy landscape of the pandemic, the grind of switching scenes and constantly starting over, and the strange world of VR comedy rooms—and yes, even naked comedy (why is that happening?!).
From struggling to connect with virtual audiences to owning your time on stage, this episode is a must-listen for anyone chasing laughs and naviga...
Between Bombs Ep 305 Callbacks: The Art of Clowning
In this lively “Between Bombs” episode, Dan and Larry dig deeper into the art of clowning—yes, there is an art to it—and why it’s more than just red noses and floppy shoes. They explore how comedians like Katie avoid getting pigeonholeed by staying creatively versatile, and chat about the ripple effects when big-name comics land in smaller scenes. It’s a fun, insightful look at how comedy evolves—and how artists can keep up without losing themselves.
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John...
Between Bombs Ep 305 Callbacks: The Art of Clowning | Ad Free
In this lively “Between Bombs” episode, Dan and Larry dig deeper into the art of clowning—yes, there is an art to it—and why it’s more than just red noses and floppy shoes. They explore how comedians like Katie avoid getting pigeonholeed by staying creatively versatile, and chat about the ripple effects when big-name comics land in smaller scenes. It’s a fun, insightful look at how comedy evolves—and how artists can keep up without losing themselves.
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John...
Katie Bowman (High Plains Comedy Festival) - Screaming Into the Void
In this episode, Dan chats with Denver-based comedian and artist Katie about the ups and downs of producing shows, embracing creativity, and recognizing the value of your talent. They also dive into what happens when comedy giants drop into smaller scenes—spoiler: it gets interesting!
Katie Bowman
Katie Bowman is an artist, stand-up, and improv comedian from Denver. Bowman strives to connect with the audience with bits about her life as a social underdog using voices and act outs. She just released her first comedy album, Neurodivergent Nightmare, which hit number one on...
Between Bombs Ep 304 Callbacks
In this episode of Between Bombs, Dan and Larry look back at their chat with Jeremy Alder from Episode 304. They swap stories about why you should always get the full scoop before saying yes to a show, why springing comedy on an unsuspecting crowd is a terrible idea, and when it’s cool (or not) to dive into taboo topics. Spoiler: timing is everything!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Jeremy Alder (Dry Bar Comedy) - Comedy: The Divorced Guy Activity
Jeremy and Dan sit down for a fun conversation about the importance of finding your people in comedy. They dig into Jeremy’s surprising path from life as a preacher to chasing laughs onstage. Plus, they swap some unforgettable stories — including a New Year’s Eve show that went completely off the rails.
Jeremy Alder
Homeschooled in the heart of Texas by fundamentalist missionary parents with a
penchant for conspiracy theories, Jeremy’s childhood was anything but conventional.
Steeped in a world of alternative facts and fervent beliefs, he learned early on...
Between Bombs Ep 303 Callbacks
In an all-new episode of Between Bombs, Dan and Larry call back episode 303 with Bailey Pope. They talk about festival submissions, shaking off bad sets, not dwelling on sets (good or bad), and more!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Bumpers provided by https://www.facebook.com/joenicolamusic
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.
<...
Bailey Pope (Limestone Comedy Festival) - Gotta Shake It Off
Bailey started with public speaking, but the desire to do standup had always been there. She and Dan discuss the community that is standup, connecting to an audience through humor, the comedic delight that weird small towns can be, festivals, submission tapes, and how inexperience and a venue can affect you.
Bailey Pope
Bailey Pope (She/Her/Etc) is a New York-based Comedian, writer, and pigeon-holed actress, providing the overly-tattooed, failed rock star transgender woman comedy that everyone has been searching centuries for. Bailey has been featured in festivals including the New...
Between Bombs Ep 302 Callbacks
In an all-new episode of Between Bombs, Dan and Larry call back episode 302 with Andy Woodhull. They talk about performing on cruise ships, knowing the difference between a set and an act, and knowing your limitations when starting.
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Bumpers provided by https://www.facebook.com/joenicolamusic
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com...
Andy Woodhull (The Tonight Show) - There’s a Bomb on the Boat! (Still Better Than Speed 2)
Dan gets to talk to Andy Woodhull about overextending yourself when you’re new, how bombing is bad, and how being stuck on a cruise ship after bombing is worse! Also, preparing for crowd work, burning material, and “never being finished.”
Andy Woodhull
Los Angeles-based stand-up comedian, writer, and television host Andy Woodhull was the first comedian to make his network television debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He has also appeared on The Late Late Show with James Corden, Conan, Live at Gotham, and Comedy Central. He has written for SYF...
Between Bombs Ep 301 Callbacks
In an all-new episode of Between Bombs, Dan and Larry call back episode 301 with Jeff Albright, In this episode, they talk about the definition of bombing, one's own perspective, and finding your niche.Â
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Bumpers provided by https://www.facebook.com/joenicolamusic
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpod
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Jeff Albright (LoCo Comedy) - Zen and the Art of Bombing
Dan finally gets to sit down with his producing partner, Jeff Albright (LoCo Comedy). They discuss Jeff’s preference for writing over performing, whether open mics “count,” the philosophy behind bombing, and the importance of a tight show. They also touch on social media mistakes, reigniting passion, and how success is relative.
Jeff Albright
Jeff Albright is a Loveland-based comedian and producer. He is the founder of LoCo Comedy and is a founding member of the Laugh Out Loveland Comedy Festival. Jeff has appeared at High Planes Comedy Festival, Cream City Comedy Festiv...
Between Bombs Ep 300 Callbacks
In an all-new episode of Between Bombs, Dan and Larry callback episode 300 with Sam Miller. In this episode, they talk about setting priorities to reach goals while taking care of yourself, the importance of staying loose on stage, and more. Plus, we celebrate our 300th episode of The Art of Bombing!
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Bumpers provided by https://www.facebook.com/joenicolamusic
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://linktr...
Sam Miller (Stand Up! Records) Returns - The 300 Episode Milestone
The hilarious Sam Miller returns for the 300th episode! Sam and Dan discuss recovering from the loss of social media, staying loose while keeping the material tight, and how to treat the four people who came to see you. They also chat about less-than-ideal producers, Sam’s writing process, and Adventures in Boogertown!
Sam Miller
Sam Miller is a nationally touring comedian from Olympia, Washington. He is 6 foot 6, 360 pounds, has two kids, (one of them is on purpose) he's been married for 13 years, and has been clean and sober for 15 years. Sam li...
Between Bombs Ep 299 Callbacks
In an all-new episode of Between Bombs, Dan introduces the pod's new producer and co-host of Between Bombs, Larry Smith. In this episode, they explore the challenges of crowdwork and heckling in comedy. This episode breaks down the different types of heckling—positive and negative—how comedians might unintentionally invite interruptions, and the differences between paid and unpaid audiences. Plus, why is it harder to get people in the front row?
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half...
Aidan McCluskey - Coffee, Soda, and a Nicotine Patch
When stand-up comedian Aiden McCluskey goes on the road, he gets free coffee from the hospital lobby (not a patient) and eats continental breakfast at the hotel (not staying there). He jams with Dan Bublitz Jr about these and other travel and social media tips on this episode of the Art of Bombing Podcast.
You’ll learn a lot more in this one: the effect crowdwork tips are having on live comedy, why you should build up your material before posting on social, how crowds are different when they aren’t paying for tickets, and why McCluskey HATES it w...
Between Bombs Ep 298 Callbacks
In an all-new episode of Between Bombs, Dan and Josh call back episode 298 with Hayden Kristal and dive into factors that can speed up your growth in comedy: “Table stakes” for comedy - how can you not be a liability? And how “you” get booked, not “your material”
Art of Bombing:
"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Bumpers provided by https://www.facebook.com/joenicolamusic
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpod
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Hayden Kristal | The Importance of Being Nice
Hayden Kristal (pronounced like the meth and spelled like the stripper) (America's Got Talent, Netfilx Is A Joke) is an acclaimed public speaker (upcoming gigs with Netflix and NASA) who is speed-running her career in stand up comedy.
She talks to Dan Bublitz Jr about the things in her corporate background that translate to the stage the best and why this transition has been easier than most comics coming up through the open mic circuit.
Listen carefully, and you’ll learn basic things to do to be bookable, practical travel tips, and most importantly, a lesson Ha...
