The comedians paradise

In this episode of The Comedian’s Paradise, host Marvin McCarthy sits down with the brilliant Jack McMinn, a standout musical comedian and a true "man of interesting facts". Jack pulls back the curtain on his creative DNA, tracing his early inspirations from the deadpan genius of Flight of the Conchords and the lyrical mastery of Tim Minchin. They dive into the evolution of comedy through the noughties and tens, discussing the unique "weirdness" of being a musical act in a stand-up world and why musical comedy remains such a powerful tool for connection.

The conversation takes a deep dive into Jack’s role as an archivist of the craft, exploring his "Wh...

In this episode of The Comedian’s Paradise, Marvin McCarthy and Jack Wheeler sit down with the "Supremo of Ventriloquism", Steve Hewlett. With a career spanning 40 years, Steve discusses his journey from the "bread and butter" of the holiday park circuit to becoming a Britain's Got Talent finalist.

Steve opens up about the reality of touring with The Osmonds in America, why he wouldn’t step onto the BGT stage in the current climate, and a fascinating story about his fan, the late John Hurt. We also explore the technical challenges of the craft and whether Simon Cowe...

Join host Marvin McCarthy as he speaks with Jay Saunders, a former Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy turned comedian. Discover how Jay is using Project Comedy to help UK veterans recover from PTSD and transition to civilian life through the power of military humour. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:00]] Why British Military Personnel are World-Class [[04:31]]

[[05:36]] From Lieutenant Commander to Comedian: Jay’s Journey [[07:00]]

[[07:00]] Camaraderie vs. Bullying: The Reality of Military ‘Banter’ [[09:36]]

[[09:36]] Joining the Armed Services: Jay’s Military Career Beginnings [[12:45]]

[[12:45]] Battling PTSD & Smashing the Edinburgh Fringe w...

In this episode of The Comedian’s Paradise, Marvin McCarthy interviews the "Beast of Physical comedy" himself, John Towsen, for an in-depth exploration of the mechanics of funny.

John breaks down the relationship between clowning and physical comedy, moving beyond typical red-nose tropes to look at the spirit of the performer. We compare American and European styles, discuss the legendary impact of Philippe Gaulier, and examine why so few people are teaching physical comedy correctly today.

Crucially for the stand-up community, John deconstructs gag structures, explaining exactly how a physical gag differs from a verbal jo...

The Comedian’s Paradise is the interview podcast giving you the inside scoop on global comedy scenes and the mavericks who define them. In this episode, host Marvin McCarthy sits down with the legendary physical comedian Michel Courtemanche. Known as the "Human Cartoon", Michel reveals why he walked away from international fame to pursue his true passion for directing.

Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:00]] My journey to being a physical comedian and how I eventually transitioned to my passion [[08:40]]

[[13:00]] My process for refining and creating bits: Building characters, placing them in...

How do you turn a kitchen-table pilot into a comedy powerhouse with 100,000 subscribers? Marvin McCarthy sits down with Phil Green to discuss his unique journey through the comedy circuit, his success as a festival regular, and the meteoric rise of Believe? The Myths & Conspiracies Pod. From debunking the 'bullied comedian' trope to productivity tips inspired by the likes of Romesh Ranganathan, this episode is the ultimate guide to mastering independence and connecting with an audience on your own terms. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:00]] Journey into comedy and the Believe Conspiracy podcast [[11:33]]

[[11:46...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop on what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Susan Nickson, the creator of the legendary British sitcom Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, joins The Comedian’s Paradise to share her journey of writing a hit show at just 19 years old. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:00]] Accents and finding love: Regional identity and chemistry [[06:04]]

[[06:04]] Starting Two Pints: The origin of the BBC cult classic [[07:52]]

[[07:52]] Asians ageing well: Cultural in...

Welcome to the interview podcast providing an inside scoop on comedy scenes across the globe. We are dedicated to speaking with the true mavericks of the comedy world.

In this episode, join acclaimed comedian Dane Baptiste for an unfiltered look at his journey, from his humble beginnings to conquering the Edinburgh Fringe. Dane dives deep into the harsh realities of the comedy industry, the hurdles of creating a Black sitcom, and the nuances of racism in the UK versus the USA.

From navigating "cancel culture" to the raw truth about fame and ego, Baptiste explores...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Join hosts Marvin McCarthy and Jack Wheeler as they interview Donatas Kveselys, the 6ft 7in Lithuanian comedian making waves in Sweden, the european circuit, Japan and conquering all UK gong shows. Based in Gothenburg, Sweden, the "Lithuanian Giant" has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting rising stars in stand-up comedy. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:08]] The London Comedy Scene vs Everywhere Else

...

How does a WCW announcer and WGA screenwriter become a world-class clown? Chad Damiani joins Marvin McCarthy on The Comedians Paradise to break down the link between pro wrestling and physical comedy, the brilliance of Natalie Palamides, and why every comedian should question authority. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[07:35]] Clowning vs Wrestling: Examining the surprising parallels between these two art forms.[[14:58]]

[[08:35]] Gatekeeping in Comedy: Challenging the barriers to entry in the alternative scene. [[15:10]]

[[15:11]] The Wrestler as Clown: Which pro-wrestlers best embody the clown archetype? [[18:07]]

[[21:59]] Conservatory Training: Navigating the...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Our guest today is Simon Rakoff, Simon Rakoff is a veteran Canadian stand-up comedian with a career spanning over 40 years. Known for his sharp wit, observational humour, and storytelling, Simon has performed across Canada, the USA, and the UK, earning acclaim at major comedy festivals such as Just For Laughs, Halifax Ha!, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:00]] A brief overview of Canadian...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Joining us today is Darren Sanders, a veteran of the Australian comedy circuit with over 30 years of stage and screen experience. Known for his sharp observational wit and relaxed storytelling, Darren has hosted five seasons of his own late-night program, The Darren Sanders Show, and appeared in hits like Underbelly and A Place To Call Home. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[02:07]] Coming from Adelaide and gigging for 33...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We talk to Andy Huggins, a veteran stand-up comedian and "King of One-Liners". A beloved figure in the comedy world for over 45 years, he gained national recognition on Season 13 of America's Got Talent (AGT), where he surprised judges by revealing he started his career alongside Howie Mandel decades ago. Huggins' timeless humor and unique perspective on aging have made his performances with Don't Tell Comedy go viral, captivating millions across YouTube, TikTok...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to former crip gang member, prisoner of 23 years and now professional comedian, Stacey Taylor. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[01:00] Grew up being funny; there were no outlets for comedy in the ghetto, so I went into drugs and joined the Crips[03:41]

[05:28] It’s one-sided; that’s why people get into gangs, and why cults are always present.[08:56]

[13:33] How The Secret by Rhon...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In todays episode we talk about two ladies Alice Frick and Sophie Quirk, two individuals who are seeking to make the UK comedy scene are much fairer and safer place for comedians:

[[01:07]] Brief intro on our main guests [[07:09]]

[[07:09]] Comedians are very divided and standup isn’t very organised, its good, but you may not get paid [[11:22]]

[[13:32]] How to make acts feel assured [[20:34]]

[[39:12 ]] False accusations an...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Leon Filewood is an emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stand-up comedian from Australia known for his observational humor and truth-telling style. He has performed at major events like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and the Adelaide Fringe Festival. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:39]] The two indigenous populations history in Australia and not being allowed to practice your culture and traditions [[15:27]]

[[15:27]] A...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to brilliant clown teacher, Mick Barnfather,he has a prominent background in physical theatre and clowning pedagogy, built over 40 years as an actor, director, and influential teacher. His approach centers on the philosophy of theatrical clowning rather than the traditional circus style. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[07:26]] Finding your clown and repeating things, how to recreate what works , how to re-create things as a director...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to Ed Rowett, , award-winning writer for BBC Radio 4's Reluctant Persuaders and script editor for Channel 4's Hullraisers. In this exclusive interview, Ed shares industry insights on crafting compelling sitcoms, breaking into the competitive UK comedy scene, and his creative process. If you would like to know more about Ed, you can look to find his sitcom reluctant persuaders with this link:https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/b08...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world.In this episode, we sit down with Anastasiya Sil, a rising Ukrainian stand-up comedian, to talk about her journey in comedy, the challenges of performing in a global landscape, and how humour helps her navigate life. Anastasiya shares her funniest experiences, insights on the comedy scene in Ukraine, and what it’s like to make people laugh across cultures. Whether you’re a fan of stand-up comedy, interested in Ukrainian artists, or just...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Kevin Jordan is a former LAPD cop turned stand-up comedian with over 30 years on stage. From patrolling the streets of Los Angeles to commanding the mic with hilarious stories and sharp observations, Kevin blends real-life experiences with laugh-out-loud comedy. His career spans comedy clubs, corporate events, cruise lines, and military performances, making him a master storyteller with a badge for humour. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:15]] My...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Jon Davison is a professional clown performer, teacher, director, and academic with over 40 years of experience in the field. He is a leading figure in the world of clowning and is not associated with a "clown" reference in a derogatory or meme sense. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[08:57]] What comedians learn from standup [[14:47]]

[[17:25]] How Ive turned a butterfly to a swan [[27:25]]

[[30:58]] People think...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We talk to producer, interviewer and podcaster of Comedy Wham,Valerie Lopez. A platform that is dedicated to covering the live Austin comedy scene, featuring articles and podcast interviews with both local and touring comedians. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:00]] Austin before and after rogan [[19:40]]

[[24:00]] Acts blaming the audience and comedy that punches down [[34:29]]

[[35:14]] Don’t surround yourself with yes men and standup co...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to comedian and black cabbie Trevor Bickles. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[03:53]] Starting in the Lions Den, where me and Trevor first met [[07:15]]

[[07:15]] Can you say what you want and cancel culture [[13:06]]

[[13:48]] How comedy used to be [[18:29]]

[[33:59]] London is less safe than it used to be and why reform have grown in popularity [[42:37]]

[[55:00]] This will go up...

The Comedians Paradise dives into global comedy scenes with bold, boundary-pushing comics. In this episode, Kenyan-Somali comedian Adan Abdi shares his journey through Kenya’s stand-up scene, cultural identity, and the realities of making it in African comedy. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[06:00]] Growing up in Kenya with Somalian origins and comparing how South Africa treats Somalians [[08:53]]

[[14:00]] My journey into standup and the growth of the Kenyan scene [[29:46]]

[[29:46]] The comedy scene in Africa is supportive [[41:23]]

[[31:55]] Where I need to put an image [[46:06]]

[[46:06 ]]The financial situation of co...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to Oleksandr Kachura is a stand-up comedian from Ukraine, who is active part of Kyiv's "Underground Standup" scene and hosts English open mics. He began his stand-up career in Hong Kong after being inspired by a performance by comedian Pablo Francisco. He also performed in Mandarin on several occasions while living in China. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Today, we're honored to sit down with Lee Delong—a true force of nature in the world of performing arts. Lee is an accomplished American and French actress, director, writer, and a globally renowned clown teacher. From sharing scenes with Mia Farrow in Luc Besson’s films to winning awards for her one-woman show in Sarajevo, her career is a masterclass in creativity and resilience. Here is an overview of what we disc...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to Larry Omaha, a Yaqui-Zapotec Native American with 40 years in comedy, known for his insightful that turn Indigenous stereotypes on their head. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:35]] How I got into comedy and my ethos on comedy [[03:17]]

[[04:42]] Ignorance I get from people being a Native American comedian [[12:47]]

[[05:26]] funny native American [[07:26]]

[[09:22]] funny Native American joke [[10:36]]

[[12:47]] The comedy community [[14:32]]<...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to the brilliant and unique, Trevor Lock, a master of the unexpected.He is an English comedian, actor, and playwright known for his surreal, improvisational, and audience-focused style. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[06:04]] Why I switched comedy styles [[08:23]]

[[12:32]] Does Trevor have a structure for crowd work [[16:25]]

[[18:53]] Don’t ask boring questions [[23:13]]

[[39:09]] Everything is a gift [[45:25]]

If you wo...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In this episode we speak to current owner of Blackfriars, a comedy venue that has started the careers of many of Scotlands best comedians, Chris Conway. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:00]] My journey to running Blackfriars comedy club [[05:47]]

[[07:10]] Show starts before the show, should people who run the club be aspiring comedians [[14:06]]

[[19:04]] Dodgy moments that have ended up being good [[21:32]]

[[21:32]] What...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In this episode we speak to tattoo shop owner, ex mma fighter and comedian to prisoners Tattoo Dave. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:03]] The truth about fighters and my experience of MMA [[08:39]]

[[12:44]] The Edinburgh and Glasgow rivalry [[17:00]]

[[17:00]] What I have learnt about people in my tattoo shop ,what’s going on at the Edinburgh fringe [[33:49]]

[[36:31]] Performing in Scottish prisons and my pr...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We talk to co-founder of Big Deal comedy, Leanne Clark. A comedy club that she has been running with her brother across East Anglia, since 2018. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:00]] Why we avoid December gigs [[01:03]]

[[01:10]] Everything is about the audience, why London open mics are terrible , don’t make things free [[02:44]]

[[02:50]] Comedy is worth 1 billion with no support from government[05:42]]

[[12:40]] How to...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to Iva Peter-Dragan, founder of the Zagreb Clown Festival and Triko circus theatre. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[07:02]] Why I set up the Zagreb clown festival and my process of running a clown festival [[13:40]]

[[20:15]] Calling your heroes to perform and overcoming imposter syndrome [[22:29]]

[[22:44]] What makes Gardi Hutter and Lee De Long so fantastic [[27:50]]

[[31:08]] Difference between an actor and a...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We chat to improviser and actor,Sam Irving. A core player in Men With Coconuts and Spontaneous potter, a Harry Potter parody improv troupe. Sam has trained in improv with teachers from iO Chicago and UCB, and has previously represented Scotland in improv, in both tournaments and panels. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:00]] How I got started in improv [[03:07]]

[[04:31]] One person has never seen Harry...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In this episode we speak to Mags McHugh a comedian and mental health worker, this episode tells some horrific stories and is very hard hitting. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:49]] How to get into comedy [[03:54]]

[[07:04]] A dodgy situation at a comedy gig where a comedian calls a girl fat , bringing awareness to disabilities, meeting famous people [[12:19]]

[[12:19]] Each guest I get on is someone...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In this episode we speak to Calin Gheorghiu a comedian who lives and performs in Romania, who made a short journey in the London circuit. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[02:03]] My experience at Marvins gig [[08:38]]

[[09:42]] Doing comedy in Romania [[11:26]]

[[26:34]] Doing comedy in English and Romanian [[33:31]]

[[28:00]] Getting harassed by a male therapist [[33:53]]

[[38:03]] Willyman and how would Romanians react to Zorro...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In this episode we speak to Britains got talent finalist, comedian and impressionist, Danny Posthill.Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:54]] Is he Maccam, Geordie, Sandancer or Monkey [[02:14]]

[[15:48]] What is standup in all honesty [[19:34]]

[[26:33]] Why I don’t care what other acts think and my process for developing impressions 30:18]]

[[30:18]] Why I do BJJ [[47:09]]

[[49:49]] How to avoid a lot of problems in...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Our guest is Kate Copstick, chief reviewer at The Scotsman newspaper and the UK's scariest comedy critic after her appearance on TV's short-lived stand-up talent competition - Show Me The Funny! Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:22]] What has happened now its just taken by money [[04:44]]

[[07:01]] Only going for two weeks her thoughts on people with conditions [[08:05]]

[[08:20]] Generation needs to wake up the disease...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In this episode we talk to Katie Palmer, Comedy Director and Promoter of Brass Tacks Comedy, we discuss the skills she brings to a number of performers at the Fringe and her work with Red Bull on creating the Brass Tacks Debut Fund, here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[00:00]] Becoming the founder of Brass tacks comedy [[07:41]]

[[11:03]] Comedians are bad at admin , where venues always lose [[18:33]]

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We talk to standup and mens mental health advocate Heski. Here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[04:00]] My mental health and leading to mental health warning signs of mental [[20:11]]

[[21:53]] How I set up my event [[26:45]]

[[29:38]] Comedians and mental health [[32:21]]

[[32:21]] Pick your team members and getting rid of the wrong people [[39:24]]

[[33:10]] Its a dangerous game to connect with wrong people [[34:00]]

[[39:26...

An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In this episode we speak to Clay Newman a comedian with 12 years experience and a touring comedian in the USA, here is an overview of what we discussed:

[[01:25]] City of Angels, what it is really like, you need to get out to get work

[[04:29]]

[[11:13]] How things are for bigger clubs [[14:54]]

[[14:53]] I feel uncool being in LA, Austin and NYC [[19:22]]

[[23:08]] Maddest show I...