Marc Raco and co-hosts Danielle Beckmann and Dresden Engle interview entertainers, influencers, icons, innovators, and incredible people who have one thing in common: they are funny! Episodes feature improv games, the latest and funniest news, plus unusual food and dead-pan delivery zingers from Elsie the Producer. From celebrity star stories to Star Trek references, “Funny People Talking” delivers a whole universe of things to laugh at and with.

2021 Bronze Winner for New Zealand Podcast Awards “Best International Podcast” 2019, 2020, and 2021 finalist for People’s Choice Podcast Awards “Best Comedy Podcast”

The #1 Donald Trump Impersonator in the World, John Di Domenico, talks with "American Enough" podcast host Vikrum Aiyeron about how comedy, satire, and late night TV is dividing, uniting, and trolling America. John is an American, Emmy Nominated, Actor, Writer, Comedian and Impersonator, he performs many different characters and is best known for his award-winning Donald Trump impersonation.

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The most guests ever! Dresden has a flat tire and Elsie is MIA, so it's just Marc with SNL Scholarship Recipients Alexi Bolden, Gabriela Castillo, Kaili Turner & Morgan Van Dyne as they share their stories and their views on comedy; how and why they originally decided to apply for the scholarship, how they felt when they got the call, and what they think separated them from some 1,300 applicants; why honesty and openness mattered; hopes and goals for their lives and careers moving forward, as well as dream collaborators, and a challenge from Marc. Plus, a round of the new improv game Specific Arguments brings arguments amongst a thieving cashier with a bad-breath coworker, an unqualified pilot, and big rig driving buddies.

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How a lost wallet led to the Fifth Dimension turning into an overnight sensation, a round of the improv game Guppy Tank has contestants pitch unusual ideas to a panel of investors: a skippy lippy whippy exercise device, and something to help even the whitest and honkiest among us pop and lock with style and ease, MouthMedia Network intern Darcy workshops some of her jokes, and comedian, writer, and award winning art critic Christina Catherine Martinez joins the show and graces us with her unusual comedic sense. She shares some of her philosophy behind her work as both an artist and art critic, and discusses how she loves art that is both accessible to the masses, and referential for the real “art-heads”.

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Small ex-Chasidic queer Jewish stand-up comedian and Emmy Award-winning writer Robby Hoffman reveals her comedy journey, how even as a financial auditor, it was always a part of who she was as a person. And Robby leads a crucial and enlightening discussion about the past, present and future roles of women in comedy, and the still-present stereotype that women aren’t as funny as men. Also joining the show this week is MouthMedia Network Intern Alexi Bolden, recently named one of four Saturday Night Live scholars, and will be granted an audition for the upcoming cast of SNL. The gang also discusses too much cauliflower, cactus candy in a condom wrapper, and a round of the improv game of The Meh News covers live news stories on cat vomit in an overcrowded AirBNB and a Times Square sandwich board full of errors. Robby was just named one of Vulture's Top Comedians to Watch in 2020, one of Comedy Central's UP NEXT comedians, and on Conan O’Brien’s Comics to Watch list. She has performed numerous times at the Montreal Just for Laughs festival and was a headliner for the New York Comedy Festival. In 2019, she recorded her first one-hour stand up special for Just for Laughs, "I’m Nervous" in Toronto, available on CraveTV. Robby is also a notable TV writer, having written on The Chris Gethard Show (TruTV), Workin' Moms (Netflix), and Baroness Von Sketch Show (IFC). In 2019, Robby won a Daytime Emmy Award for her writing work on Odd Squad (PBS).

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A harrowing tale of freezing waiting six hours for a COVID vaccine, lion headphones, Rhyming the Headlines with Elsie covers a baby thug makeover and creepy imaginary friends, and a round of the favorite improv game Audible brings scheduling conflicts at the zoo and romance on the high wire. And, veteran stand-up comedian and comedy teacher Chris Murphy joins the show and shares some of his experiences working in the field for over 25 years, brings us into his journey with cancer, and how that has affected his comedy, and a moment of epiphany in which he became aware of how grateful he was to have devoted his life to something he loves and cares about so much. Plus, Chris shares some of his method for developing jokes, and how he records how well certain jokes hit with different demographics.

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The gang's back with Season 3! Dresden possibly has green hair, and shares some very personal experiences with Covid-19 from the perspective of her and her family, Elsie debuts a new Yum or Yuck with a kind of taro reading, Dresden reveals a moment involving Eddie Money and an unfortunate gigantic bag of weed, and a round of the hilarious improv game Mish Mosh Mix doesn't go well for everyone (though Dresden sings about the similarities and differences between the moon, giraffes, and hippos, and Elsie gives her best Vanilla Ice impression). Plus, musicians and boyfriends Matt Aument and John Coons tell the story of how they began collaborating and writing their particular brand of twisted, classy musical comedy, share a song, and reveal how they met - a meet-cute that would make Nora Ephron jealous.

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How the desire to share life’s realities as women in dating, sex, and more turned into a real growing business as podcasters with Girls Gotta Eat…

Ashley Hesseltine (standup comedian, writer, and founder of @brosbeingbasic + @fashiondads_) and Rayna Greenberg (writer, photographer, founder of @onehungryjew) host the popular podcast “Girls Gotta Eat”, with millions of downloads. While much has changed since then, in this 2018 sit-down with Marc they shared why they started the podcast, how it has developed to such hit, why they integrated live shows so early in the journey, why they never expected the show to take on a life of its own, thinking about the podcast as a real startup business, their then-impending live show tour, and much more.

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Always funny, Maija DiGiorgio is a comedian, filmmaker who in her first year doing stand-up took the comedy world by storm taping five national TV appearances, receiving a standing ovation at NBC’s Live from the Apollo, and performing at the HBO Aspen Comedy Festival. Her hour show IncogNegro was part of the summer series at the prestigious Here theater in SOHO. Maija had recently filmed her Dry Bar Special which is available now and already receiving rave reviews. She is in the process of recording her first comedy album with 800 PoundGorilla Records. In this classic episode of "Monkey Radio with Marc", Maija joins Marc and co-host Ben Rose for a trip around her journey and how she thinks about humor, we pay a story-telling improv game with her, Ben shares a peek into his wacky world, and Marc laments on illegal cycling.

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Award-winning visual artist, commercial photographer and producer of independent motion pictures Miles Maker, known for his cinematic visual style that is honest and intimate, emotive and kinetic, timeless and iconic, is featured in the classic episode of Monkey Radio with Marc with co-host Ben Rose. This is also the first appearance of the improv game "What If?".

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As we time travel into this episode of "Monkey Radio with Marc", Marc and co-host Ben Rose record on-location at Baconery and are joined by six-time Tony nominee Beguelin. His works include Disney’s Aladdin (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics), The Prom (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics) and The Wedding Singer (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics). He also wrote the lyrics for the Broadway musical Elf, which broke several box office records. Plus an improv game and Elsie shares a special Baconery-inspired End of Show Food.

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As we time travel into this episode of "Monkey Radio with Marc", Marc and co-host Ben Rose are joined by improv comedian and actor Brad Sherwood of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" fame. Plus a round of "If I Were In Charge of the World" and Elsie brings a fun End of Show Food.

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Elsie has mobile mistletoe, Marc pitches inventions to battle noisy neighbors, another round of Headline Poetry with Elsie covers a German pilot’s strange activities, a baby Thai elephant, and a Russian cat, a round of "What If: Political Edition" uncovers will campaign strategies. Plus, lawyer-turned-artist/activist Tootsie Warhol shares his journey that led from working in civil rights law, to a meeting with Trump and his covert recording, which then sparked a career as a full time Trump-impersonating performance artist. He discusses the role of humor in his art, and how to strike a balance between making a meaningful political statement and appealing to the funny bone.

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A real-life When Harry Met Sally Christmas tree moment, a PR Tip on using the right words, Elsie's Headline-Inspired Poetry, Dresden has a special light and one-upping one another with a new improv game "With All Due Respect". Plus, guest Darlene Liebman talks about her amazing business Creative Humans (a platform that matches up brands with video professionals), shares her process of vetting prospective creatives, and the sweet spot of finding highly talented individuals before they’ve gotten so expensive they’re not cost effective anymore.

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Dresden is stuck in a Frozen room thanks to a COVID scare, why rocker Eddie Money was better than Google, a scandalous musical press conference, move review prognostication, and theories about being ghosted by a busker. Canadian music correspondent, blogger, radio host and former director of media relations at eOne Music Canada Eric Alper (who also runs music public relations company That Eric Alper and host of the SiriusXM show “That Eric Alper”) joins the fun and shares insights on publicity, stories about infamous musicians, insights on the transformation of music and entertainment, how his path started, and why Monty Python has been such an inspiration.

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Elsie has streamers, amazing dairy-free ice cream from Casper's called Jolly Llama in a special installment of Yum or Yuck, a dispute between Hollywood legends, improv game Guppy Tank features mushroom-motivated exercise, a key killer, and more. Nathan Russell, UCB comedian and founder of Hammond Hill Media (a full service creative studio and production company founded by former executives at the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB), with an approach is deeply rooted in improvisational comedy) joins to share more about the company along with his insights on comedy and integrating improv.

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A real life GI Joe, a Beach Boys memory, being the "Kool Aid" house, escalator etiquette, annoying TikTok dances, throwing cold butter on hot pancakes, Elsie's surprising advice, and what we would all do if we were in charge of the world! Plus Colin McIntosh, the founder of Sheets & Giggles (a sustainability-focused, mission driven bedsheet company), joins to share his incredible mission, entrepreneurial journey, what the company is doing to change the world, and how he approaches humor with the company ethos and in stand-up comedy.

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We're thankful, and have invited special friends to drop by. Marc's friend and former co-host John Locke guest-hosts, and a few surprise guests drop in. Plus a super special hard-to-find Thanksgiving tasting from Elsie, a blast from the past, and a super hilarious round of the improv game "What If?" Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

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Emotional stories of election results celebration, Dresden's eyebrows are woven like lace, a round of Yum or Yuck with tasty Lekkco Belgian dark chocolate spreads, and a round of the improv comedy game Redirection, in which direction changes mid-scene and a day at the zoo turns unexpectedly dark. Founder Rory Hughes joins from Ireland and discusses his company BOOM, Broadway Official Online Masterclass, which is a platform created for the pandemic to provide work in the form of teaching to Broadway performers and artists, and stories of being starstruck working with some of the Broadway performers working with BOOM.

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Elsie hilariously gives her own take on real headlines, Arnold Schwarzenegger gets into unexpected situations in a revisited improv game favorite, Dresden recalls an under-appreciated Ken Burns-related April Fools joke, cast mysteries, and why the US might be Canada's downstairs neighbor with a meth lab. Plus, big-deal stand-up comedian Debra DiGiovanni shares career highlights from Conan to Last Comic Standing, making Canadians laugh why just being true to herself is key to her success, the person who is her barometer of funny, and the joke that she keeps telling whether or not it gets a laugh. (Recorded the day after the 2020 US Election).

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Sheer star power. Dresden clings to the 1980's, Elsie has everyone in absolute stitches with a story some of us have already seen, and everyone enjoys an improvised Oscar-Winning Moment! Hugely talented Broadway star Jen Cody (Urinetown, The Wild Party, Shrek, Pajama Game, and many more), film (Charlotte La Bouff in Disney's “The Princess and the Frog") and TV (Winx Club, Blue Bloods, The Good Fight, and many more), is also the 2nd Vice President of Actor's Equity Association and married to actor Hunter Foster. Jen hilariously tells all about learning comedy from the greats such as watching Sally Struthers tinker meticulously with the timing of a bit; the commitment it takes to be an actor, with all the hardships that come with the job; the professionalism it takes to perform 8 shows a week; and reflecting on getting her first big role, an unlikely role she somehow keeps playing, behind the scenes secrets, and the moment she knew she real was funny.

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Facing off with a Sopranos actor, licking a subway pole, musical arguments cover toenail clippings and estranged twins, and Elsie becomes the canvas. Comedian, writer, actor, musician, and UCB performer Eliza Kingsbury joins to discuss her three-name identity, the story behind her recent Lady Gaga parody video, being an entertainer during a pandemic, and the importance of hustle.

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A special Breast Cancer Awareness episode with Rochester, NY breast surgeon Dr. Rachel Farkas. Small celebrities, a round of improv with The Jewish Mother News Reporter covers a prom fashion faux pas and hosting a holiday without warning, and a very fishy segment of Yum or Yuck. Plus Rachel shares how she treats every patient as an individual (rather than a statistic), and makes the process so fun, you might think you had surgery in a disco! Plus, practical and necessary advice for all women over 40, and why getting a mammogram can be positive instead of scary (plus, what's all this talk about Jon Bon Jovi?)

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An important middle initial, an ice cream extravaganza, celebrities mess up Dresden's name, the concept of hype and why it is neither good nor bad, how marketing and PR have transformed over time, and an improv game about a big f-ing announcement brings a movie trailer, a preacher, a horror movie, and 1930's radio! Michael F. Schein, founder of Microfame Media, and author of the upcoming book The Hype Handbook is our guest!

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Hamilton's "George Washington" on Broadway, Tamar Greene, reveals an epic journey to landing his dream role, why he follows cheeky advice to never give more than 62.5%, surprises us with a live performance of a favorite song, and talks social relevancy and weight of taking on such an iconic American role at challenging time in America. Plus, sage advice for Dresden from Dennis Hopper and Philip Seymour Hoffman, Marc's return to the NYC subway is a disaster, improvised musical arguments go off the rails, Dresden is an action figure, and Elsie taste-tests a surprising combination.

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Unicorn glitter, the most unfortunately-named award ever, taste-testing everything, Tina Fey gets the treatment, discovering ASMR porn, and a very emotional press conference redefines Lady Gaga. Plus, Chris Schembra, the Gratitude Guru and most sought after dinner host anywhere, shares how gratitude saved his life and inspired a company that brings people together to make connections through community, vulnerability, and pasta sauce. And, the touching 2 a.m. moment when he realized he was on the right path, why accepting that you will never actually fully heal allows your heart to open up to possibilities, and how the power of humor and gratitude can completely transform a large number of people in mere minutes.

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Queer Filipino-American folk-singer Mercy Bell takes us through her career in the music scene, why appearing in Rolling Stone made her go get a job, how identifying off the bat as both queer and Filipino is of personal importance to her, and the importance of humor for much needed levity to her songs which can otherwise deal with heavy topics. Plus, a risque whopped cream moment with Greg Brady, an unexpected kazoo, the pizza scent of Tina Fey, horseradish love with Elsie, Mercy improvises a new Broadway style song on the spot, and a live performance of her song All Good Cowboys.

Legendary comedian, actor, writer, podcaster, and host Judy Gold goes deep on censoring comics, advice for new comedians in the current political climate, dealing with Trump supporters, writing and revisiting jokes, career accomplishments and near misses, future goals, and why Madonna was a TV mom to Judy's son. Plus, too many goats, a huge Willy Wonka wardrobe malfunction, a confusing shrimp snack, and how both rodeo clowns and a Jewish Christmas movie play roles in an improv game.

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Mrs Kasha Davis (MKD), a Drag Queen best known for RuPauls Drag Race Season 7, is the self proclaimed International Celebrity Housewife who has traveled the world entertaining audiences with her wit and down home charm. Take a fabulous, fun-filled trip through her career start, reinvention, meaning, wigs, dealing with hecklers and disbelievers, and why kids might be her best audience. Plus, so many troll dolls, truth-telling, an improv game that puts you in charge of the world, celebrity oral care with King Kong star Fay Wray, and Egyptian Yum or Yuck with Elsie, and so much more!

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Comedian, actress, singer, playwright, mom, and award-winning author (in spring 2020 she published the first and only biography of rock star Eddie Money) and communications professional Dresden Engle joins as co-host. In this Season 2 premiere episode, Danielle is off to another planet, Marc is Archie Bunker, Elsie grows window-corn, and we hear a few of Dresden's many celebrity moments. Plus, a round of the improv game "The Meh News" including protesting rats and a toothpaste thief, and Elsie shares the new food segment "Yum or Yuck"!

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Marc and Elsie announce Season 2. And big news!

Check out Elsie's videos on Instagram

@elsietheproducer

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The greatest Jennifer Aniston story ever and why an obsession with the TV show "Friends" inspired a comedy career, birds everywhere, puzzles in a pandemic, the mystery of the green shirt, a new improv game "Seuss This" brings Dr. Seuss-styled arguments, and mystery foods. Plus, comedian, producer, and writer Nicole Blaine shares the scoop on her new comedy special "Life's a Bit", how motherhood inspires her comedy, conflict after a drive-by squirt-gunning, and discovering she's funny.

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Elsie's cat says hi, the no-poo hair washing technique, life during COVID-19 and spreading optimism and hope, a brazen theft a cookie, a round of the improv game "The Meh News", dog-related nicknames, and a self-service, at-home version of End of Show Food. Plus, comedian and writer Julie Harrison-Harney shares about writing for UCB and the WWE, working at The Tonight Show, and crushing on Tik Tok.

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Big Vision, Empty Wallet, navigating humor during COVID-19, a round of the improv game "What If" brings Tom Cruise, Kevin Bacon, Judi Dench, and a baseball scarring and fiery end, a stage show with adult sex education, and an End of Show Food first. Producer, writer, and comedian Dani Faith Leonard joins remotely from her mother's home.

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SPECIAL MINISODE ON COVID-19: Comedy legend and former host of The Tonight Show "Jay Leno" offers his thoughts on tips for staying entertained and upbeat during the COVID-19 pandemic. Impression for this parody/satire by John Di Domenico.

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SPECIAL MINISODE ON COVID-19: Newsman and talk show legend "Larry King" offers his thoughts on evaluating helpful information and news and when to ignore bad information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Impression for this parody/satire by John Di Domenico.

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SPECIAL MINISODE ON COVID-19: The Price of Darkness "Ozzy Osbourne" offers his thoughts on staying healthy and mentally well during the COVID-19 pandemic. Impression for this parody/satire by John Di Domenico.

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SPECIAL MINISODE ON COVID-19: "Austin Powers" ("International Man of Mystery") stops by to discuss intimacy, romance, sex, letter-writing, connection, social distancing, and more in the face of COVID-19. Impression for this parody/satire by John Di Domenico.

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SPECIAL MINISODE ON COVID-19: Dr. Evil (the nemesis of Austin Powers) stops by to discuss social distancing, proper hand-washing, and the meaning of evil in the face of COVID-19. Impression for this parody/satire by John Di Domenico.

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SPECIAL MINISODE ON COVID-19: Talk show host "Dr. Phil" stops by to talk about maintaining mental and emotional health in the face of COVID-19, social distancing, and quarantine, and how to avoid being stupid. Impression for this parody/satire by John Di Domenico.

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SPECIAL MINISODE ON COVID-19: The "President of the United States" stops by to talk about everything he is doing to address the pandemic, and advice on staying calm and hopeful. Impression for this parody/satire by John Di Domenico.

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A Star Wars arrest, fake towns on maps, an improv game with a big announcement, deploying comedy for levity in workplaces, and a shocking End of Show Food from down under. Writer, corporate consultant, and comedian Stephen Strauss shares his journey, how he became a comedian, and an amazing tie born from a Bar Mitzvah.

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Rakugo is the Japanese art of comic storytelling with stories that have been passed down from Master to Apprentice. This art form has 800 current masters but what makes Katsura Sunshine special is that he is the only non-Japanese master. The gang's all back together, along with Katsura Sunshine, sharing subway stories, a round of "One Word Story", a face tattoo, a nerd tip for washing hands, and a fun end of Show Food! 

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Caveat CEO and Co-Founder Ben Lillie makes entertainment smarter. The physicist turned storyteller is also Founder of The Story Collider, a former Ted writer, and a Moth Slam Champion. Marc and Elsie explore this remarkable story in academics, in performance, and building Caveat, turn a crosswalk and elevator into hilarious sporting events in a new improv game Play by Play, inquire about a day with bells, complain about banana refusal, and go to Taiwan for End of Show Food.

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We celebrate one year of podcasting with a Holiday Special, the stars of The Latina Christmas Special, and a quartet of cheesy flavors from Whisps for End of Show Food! Plus, Marc resents satisfaction surveys, Elsie’s got bratwurst and movie reviews for flicks she hasn’t seen yet, an improv game with changing theater styles, and all about an incredible theater show that celebrates Latina’s everywhere! With Sandra Valls (Showtime’s "Latin Divas of Comedy”) Maria Russell (MTV’s “Teen Wolf”) and Diana Yanez (Margaret Cho’s “Sensuous Woman”).

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Coffee transgressions, Danielle's short film experience, the value of giving feedback to businesses, a new improv game "Headline Argument", and author, podcaster, and thought leader Randi Zinn on motherhood, business, humor, and yoga.

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Triboluminescence and sparks in candy-eating, Marc's stories about Karma and integrity, a new improv game Musical Press Conference brings big laughs, chicken chips, and singer/songwriter Will Boyajian's amazing charity Hopeful Cases, which involves Will (and others) busking in NYC subway stations for money, all of which is given away to whoever wants it. A live performance in the studio --- and a huge surprise. With guest host Lois Herzeca.

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A stand-up debut at Caroline's on Broadway, thanking Dr. Suess for nerds, Pippy Longstocking braids for a gala, Marc returns to stand-up comedy, an uncomfortable improv game with nonsensical sounds reaps insights, and scaling coach Bill Gallagher shares how he works with clients to help them grow their businesses, crafting a 15 minutes comedy routine, and taking in critiques from family.

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Carson Kressley surprises Danielle, nerd pick-up lines, multiple stress balls, starting every day with inspiration, a round of the improv game "Audible", and Venture Philanthropist Steve Little and Serial Entrepreneur Melinda Wittstock share learnings from creating a 15-minute comedy routine and performing it on the Caroline's on Broadway stage, and how they can apply those skills to their careers and podcasts.

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Entrepreneur Yanik Silver (founder of Maverick1000, a private, invitation-only global network of top entrepreneurs and industry leaders) and Matt Kazam (Las Vegas headliner, comedian,"edutainer", writer, and founder of They Laugh You Win, join Marc and Danielle to reflect on learning to do stand up comedy and performing a 15 minute set on the Caroline's on Broadway stage. They also talk puppets, Star Trek tubes, teaching at the Smithsonian, why understanding humor is so crucial to success, and the group plays a round of the improv game "What If". Plus---Richard Branson wears a mermaid tale for comic effect.

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Comic book cursing, a cat in a jazz band, being Jackie Mason's daughter, forming a comedy style, approaching a joke, playing bigger rooms, a round of the improv game "If I was In Charge of the World!", and bacon-flavored cotton candy!

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Carmen Lynch on doing comedy in two languages, the specialness of doing "Letterman", the impact off moving too NYC in her comedy, playing theaters vs. clubs, what makes her laugh, sticking with jokes that don't get a fast laugh. and her future. Plus, the origins of Pac Man, Danielle has HUGE NEWS, Breaking Bad and El Camino, an improv game that's all questions, and -- a cotton candy flavored ale?

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Melissa Villasenor joins Marc and former cohost Ben Rose's alter egos "Mickey" and "Billy" (of "The Mickey and Billy Show"), prior to joining the cast of Saturday Night Live -- in this specially republished madcap episode of "Monkey Radio with Marc".

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She's a ray of sunshine and a fashion consultant. Delia Folk of The Style That Binds Us shares her story, plus a leather onesie, laptops on the subway, health tips, a snowball assault, comedy and entrepreneurship, an unfortunate umbrella, and a round of the improv game "The Meh News". With guest host Ben Rose.

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Alisa Cohn shares insights into being a bright light and seeker, truth teller and why it helps her in being an executive coach, Marc's former co-host and Tom Cruise comparison, fitness trainer, voiceover artist, comedian and actor Ben Rose fills in, UK DJs Mickey and Billy stop by to cause trouble, health tips from former umpire Mr. Mudcap, and nobody knows when the improv game The Interruptor ends. Plus, a very appropriate End of Show Food.

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Comedian Alyce Chan on when humor is appropriate, using humor in photography and marketing, her popular show Bring Your Own Baby, dry humor, and how her husband inspires her comedy., Plus, big teeth, dentist trauma, diagramming a nerd, a Shake Shack misfire, reviewing cheeses without a taste, a round of the improv game "What If" that imagines ever-changing ad pitches, and glow in the dark Oreos.

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Comedian David Drake talks taking on a live audience and why a comedian shouldn't turn on them, showcasing "Comedians You Should Know", digging yourself out of a hole, and a favorite joke about Halloween. Plus, accents without offense, unwanted music on the subway, nerd camp and "mermaiding", living in the moment, chocolate orange red wine, and improvised stories that must include three words.

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Celebrity Answering Machine improv, nerdiest zodiac signs, authenticity in casting, pea puns, content creator vs. stylist, humor in wardrobe styling, and flaming chips are all covered with Stylist, Content Creator, and Model Steven Sharpe Jr..

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Mustard Lane Founder Kristal Mallookis joins the fun as we talk People's Choice Podcast Awards nomination, movie locations, cigarette vengeance, Marc's epic story about losing his keys, play an improv game "If I Was in Charge of the World", taste and rank chickenless Australian chips, and discover Kristal's journey in building an amazing and fast-growing staffing company with professional event staff and promotional models.

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One *$%^ing hilarious episode! A guest-less show features Danielle discusses her tassels that she’s wearing, talking about the imitation that guest host Kathy did of her, and has nerd tips about ComicCon survival tips about finding a bathroom, routes to get there and finding a coffee shop to relax. Marc talks about seeing Celebrity Autobiography and Beetlejuice, Danielle talks about Schitt’s Creek while Marc talks about Bates Motel, the group plays the song-invention improv game Mish Mosh Mix, and Elsie introduces the group to an Australian snack that has everyone asking for more!

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Desmond Is Amazing (a 12-year old drag kid, awarded LGBTQ advocate, outspoken gay youth, editorial and runway model, public speaker, performer, founder of their own drag house: the Haus of Amazing, fashion designer, film and TV actor, published author, muse, legendary up-and-coming member of the original pioneering voguing house, the House of UltraOmni, and icon from New York City) joins Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and Elsie the producer on "Funny People Talking" to chat pompoms, influencers, Australia, silver linings, Desmond's remarkable journey and building on their following make real impact, using humor to battle haters and inspire, and two End of Show Foods from Down Under.

• Danielle talks about finding pompom’s and putting them on her clothing
• Danielle’s nerd tip is about finding make-up that has movie themes
• Danielle discusses the influencers event she worked and the swag she got
• The group discusses the value that brands get by giving swag to instagram influencers
• Marc talks about his trip to Australia including the different food, the animals and manly beach/cliff
• Desmond talks about their pet Irving the cockatoo
• The group plays the “Silver Lining” game
• Desmond explains how they got the name Desmond is Amazing
• Desmond talks about how long they have been doing drag and all the attention they have gotten
• Desmond on their mother being an inspiration
• They discuss the content on their instagram and the importance of positivity
• Desmond talks the Haus of Amazing for drag kids 20 years old and younger, no bullying allowed on the site
• Using humor to make people laugh is important for people and just wanting to make people laugh
• End of show food including Burger Rings and Tim Tam Slams

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Dressing like Elvis, a surprise pug on google maps, unseen movie reviews, Imposter Syndrome, coaching vs. therapy, a dynamic career path, creating trust with humor, and Oreos. Leadership and Career Coach Matylda Czarnecka joins Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann and producer Elsie.

• Danielle talks about dressing like Elvis for Dress Like Elvis Day
• Danielle shares nerd tips for studying like writing your notes out and using colorful sticky notes. Matylda adds a geeky factoid that people remember things better by reading on physical paper than digitally
• Marc leads the group in their usual séance for Tina Fey
• Danielle discusses getting binoculars for her birthday because of her love of bird watching. She also talks about spotting a pug on google maps street view for the restaurant she went to on her birthday
• Elsie reviews a few movies….despite never seeing them including Leo Da Vinci, I Got the Hook-Up 2, Doctor Sleep. Matylda also reviews Lido
• The group plays The Meh News where the crew improv’s news stories on mundane topics
• Matylda talks about the impact of her Polish heritage and how it impacts the way she does her work, believing it’s lead to her resilience in situations
• Matylda discusses how her mom gave her the best advice about not thinking about the job she was going to have since it wasn’t created it
• The group talks about imposter syndrome, Matylda discusses a workshop she created around it after experiencing imposter syndrome
• Matylda talks the difference between having a coach and someone going for therapy
• Despite starting her career in journalism, she wound up falling into newly created positions including becoming an internet strategist for a newspaper, creating interactive maps for storytelling and organizing a hackathon that led to people reaching out to her for similar services. Went on to inventing a hackthon consultancy
• Matylda explains that allowing comedy is helpful for our culture when we take things seriously, it helps with creating a safe space and trust
• End of Show Food featuring carrot cake Oreos

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The laughing subway woman, choreographing at the Pride Parade, making up songs, a near miss with Drew Carey, overcoming many life challenges and becoming a comedian, working on a cruise ship, a 5-year old takes LCD, and how comedy can transform lives. Actress, writer, and stand-up comedian Vanessa Hollingshead joins Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and producer Elsie for a wide-ranging conversation, and improv game, and an unusual end-of-show food!

• Danielle discusses her post-pride parade quinceanera porcupine piñata
• Danielle’s nerd tips include some pop culture items used in the kitchen
• Marc talks about a recent subway experience with his wife where a woman laugh uncontrollably for 45 minutes. Vanessa and Danielle follow-up with weird interactions with other people on the streets
• Danielle talks about her very long Pride Day where she had to teach people a choreographed routine. Vanessa talks about getting caught in the middle of the Pride Parade a few years ago
• The group plays the improv game “Mish Mosh Mix” where they come up with songs on the spot using suggestions
• Vanessa recalls an office job she had that led her to thinking she had a talent for comedy and by seeing things sarcastically has led to her style
• After turning down doing the Drew Carey show, Vanessa talks about struggling to get past thinking she missed her chance to do comedy full-time to getting the chance to perform on a Royal Caribbean cruise line ship that turned things around, as well as developing the right material for a cruise ship
• Vanessa later discusses how she struggled with abuse substances, getting clean and why it was important to help her friend who faced substance abuse issues
• Vanessa talks about dropping LCD at age 5 after her father supplied the drug to many high profiled celebrities and her feeling pride about being a survivor despite her early childhood issues at home
• Vanessa discusses the joy of being able to turn a room around after a couple bad jokes and being thanked by people for putting on a great show
• End of show food features a Lays Beef Noodle Soup chip

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A turtle ghost, jury duty, a robbery, a Tony Awards wardrobe malfunction, pitching movies, Whoopi Goldberg, Howard Stern, SNL, Mike Meyers, and becoming a cartoon. Comedian Regina DeCicco, warmup comedian for The View, joins Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and producer Elsie.

In this episode:

• Danielle talks about walking around with her empty terrarium that houses the ghost of her pet turtle
• Marc discusses getting selected for jury duty where he was stuck in a cramped room with others selected while the defendant defended himself and caused a few awkward situations
• Marc also recalls an incident where he saw a robber trying to get into an open car and ponders why people leave their car doors open in NYC
• Danielle recaps her Tony Awards experience including facing a wardrobe malfunction, acting as a seat filler and winding up with the best seat possible as Billy Porter surprisingly sung right in front of her
• Everyone plays a new improv game called where Marc and Danielle pitch a murder-knitting flick Elsie pitches a puritans love reality show
• Regina talks about the connections she’s made with past audience members and the joy she gets out of it
• How Regina warms up dud crowds for The View as well as having to be the bearer of bad news to the crowd when a host isn’t on the show and Whoopi Goldberg’s health scare
• Regina discusses lucking out by landing an internship with the SNL wardrobe department and the behind the scenes vibe of working on the show
• While interning at ABC, Regina got to meet her favorite SNL cast member, Mike Myers, and why working in show business has caused her not to get star struck
• Regina also talks about her time working on the Howard Stern show as a guest/voice and pitching ideas for the show
• Knowing when to stop trying to keep doing the same joke despite it not getting a laugh and getting jokes from experiences
• Regina talks about why making people having and having a cartoon is part of the legacy she wants to leave behind
• The crew rates the end of show special food item; Ruffles Mozzarella and Marinara Chips

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Robert Galinsky (internationally acclaimed coach, author, and actor (The Bench) who gets to the heart of: confidence building, focusing messages, developing stage presence, driving listener activation, and creating unscripted leaders) joins Marc Raco, producer Elsie, and guest host actress Kathy Searle to talk food poisoning, reacting to MAGA hats, living out loud, Lenny Bruce, reality TV school, a one-man play about the homeless, truth in comedy, and activism. Plus TWO improv games, and an End of Show Food that salutes a return to NYC!

• Why Kathy was carrying 9 IV bags with her
• Kathy’s story of getting food poisoning
• Greg discussing acting on stage and honoring the stories of the people he’s on stage for
• Kathy tells a story about a seeing a man wearing a MAGA hat on the subway and the reaction people gave to him
• The Funny People Talking crew plays two improv games; What’s The Buzz and Jingles
• Robert talks about living out loud and why a recent date told him his activism was too performative for her
• Robert explains why the system is the reason why he feels he’s more Lenny Bruce than John Lennon or Timothy Leary
• Discussing the reality tv school and the opportunity to fight another system that hurts people
• Empathy was a big reason behind Robert creating The Bench, which he wrote back in the mid 80’s
• Taking inspiration from people Robert met in real life and using them for The Bench, his fear in inviting those people to the show
• Staying focused on the truth is important to help navigate through a tough, true moment and why it takes discipline
• The Bench is a personal show that won’t be something performed by others due to the nature of the content
• Becoming close with his stage manager has helped him with the lonely part of doing one-man shows
• The end of show food: a salute to Robert's return to NYC

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Three fun improv games, no guest, and an unusual End of Show Food. Hosts Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann and producer Elsie go all-in on the fun to celebrate the 25th episode!

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A marriage license saga, communal living, an improv game reveals chimney sweeps and troglodytes, understanding lifestyle commentary and noting changing trends changing society, humor in a larger story, and breaking news interrupts the show. Plus---the origins of the poop emoji? Lifestyle commentator Robert di Mauro brings his energy, humor, and experience as he joins Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and producer Elsie in the MouthMedia Network studio.

• Elsie educates us on the origins of the "poop emoji"
• Marc asks Danielle about the sponges, which are apparently used to clean NYC, especially the subway, and Danielle has an 85 year-old intern
• Quick Nerd Tip : Adult education school “Brooklyn Brainery” in Park Slope
• The Saga of Getting Marc’s Marriage License
• Community/communal living - is it merely an extension of “Dorm Living?”
• Improv Game - What If? A Chimney Sweep with Marc and Danielle, followed by The Place Where the Troglodytes Live with Robert and Danielle
• Getting to know Robert - Understanding what a lifestyle commentator is
• Robert talks about changing trends that have shaped the fabric of society
• What are the different pieces of Robert’s journey that have allowed him to look at things through the lenses he does? Robert’s theater background, and his experience with MouthMedia
• How does Robert see humor as part of a larger story that an industry has to tell? Robert bringing the humor in his own life
• Why does Robert call so many people friends that we would recognize by name, as celebrities? He gives a lot of credit to his father, always a man of the community
• Elsie introduces the snack, which is a very fancy chocolate bar. Many chickens are given
• Danielle shares a feature in Chapman magazine which praises Danielle and FPT itself!
• A very Italian sign-off

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What's it like to work in a professional improv theatre? Plus, illusions, an American Idol moment, pugs, an emotional press conference, performer relationships on and off stage, Boston vs. New York, and nostalgic TV. Vicki Hanes and Cavan Rogers, MainStage cast members of Improv Asylum in NYC, join Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and producer Elsie.

In this episode:

• Danielle shares some book nerd facts for the readers out there
• Marc shares his experiences at the Museum of Illusions, and how we live in our own illusions day to day
• How American Idol has fueled people’s illusions and evolved over time
• Danielle’s experience meeting Donna Summer and Paula Abdul
• The upcoming The Jeffersons and All In The Family remake specials, and the tendency to bring back familiar franchises that shook things up in their time, but seem to be nostalgia vehicles
• Danielle and Vicki share their love for pugs
• A plea to the Comedy Gods to get Tina Fey on the show
• A round of “Emotional Press Conference,” where we shout out a question with an emotion and the improvisor has to answer with that emotion
• How Cavan and Vicki met, discovered improv, and how they came to be a part of Improv Asylum
• Cavan and Vicki's partnership as improvisors, and why their relationship on stage isn’t too different to how they interact offstage
• Finding structure in an improv environment that utilizes audience participation and other variables
• How Improv Asylum is structured, from the improv classes, to the house teams up to the NXT shows
• The experience of doing improv at Improv Asylum in New York compares to improv in Boston or Chicago
• Cavan and Vicki’s career highlights as performers
• Plus, Elsie brings in some smoky End of Show Food!

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Marc gets married, a 3D photo animation app, axe-throwing, movie reviews before you've seen them, living next toAlec Baldwin, inspiring businesses with improv and as a communal experience, and a round of Scenes with Numbers. Mary Lemmer, Founder of Improv4, joins Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and producer Elsie.

In this episode:

• Danielle fills us in on her vocal lessons and gives a history lesson on suspenders in the Nerd Tip of the Week
• Marc shares some details from his wedding at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, and shows off a new 3D photo animator app called Mug Life
• What technology has allowed us to do, from replicating Joe Rogan’s voice to create original synthesized conversations, to holograms and CGI performances like Carrie Fisher in Star Wars, and the potential for creating fake events with political or social repercussions in the real world
• Danielle shares a cathartic 3 year anniversary axe-based-ritual she did with her boyfriend
• A round of Elsie (and everyone else) Reviews Movies in Advance
• Mary’s experiences moving to New York and living next to Alec Baldwin
• An appeal to the Comedy Gods to get Tina Fey on the show
• How a gelato business and living a high-stress lifestyle led to Mary taking improv classes and eventually starting Improv 4
• How Improv 4 developed its methodology to help companies build team effectiveness, leadership skills and other skills through improv comedy techniques
• How comedy and improv as a communal experience have been therapeutic for Mary personally and professionally as an entrepreneur
• How Mary and the other facilitators at Improv 4 adapt their methodology to the different work environments at the companies they work with
• The importance of rediscovering the judgement-free mindset of childhood and how improv helps us attain that by “firing our inner critic”
• The rewarding transformations Mary has witnessed
• We play a round of Scenes With Numbers, one of Mary’s favorite exorcises she uses with Improv 4

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Comedian, actor, and voiceover artist Kevin Gootee, Comics Watching Comics creator, joins the show to talk jury duty fiascos, meal delivery services, the greatest Norm Macdonald story with a bow at the end, and a new improv game "The Funny Thing Is..." might have upset Danielle.

With hosts Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and producer Elsie.

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Michael Serpe, improv comedian, stage combat teacher --and tire salesman -- jumps into the show to talk humor and depression, play a game show-themed improv game, taste some spicy chocolate, and reveal why he leans into having a name that sounds like an STD.

• A guest portal in restaurant-shorthand
• Panhandling strategy and an initiative to educate the homeless
• Game Show Corner
• Humor used for serious topics - "You are Not Alone - An Uplifting Show About Depression" at the Magnet Theatre
• How far is too far in depression humor?
• Diffusing difficult situations in everyday life with humor
• Verbal pratfalls
• Why you have to lean into a name that sounds like an STD
• Hot salted Sriracha dark chocolate

With hosts Marc Raco and producer Elsie. Recorded in the MouthMedia Network studio.

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Harrison Greenbaum, summa cum laude Harvard graduate turned stand-up comedian and magician, and one of Comedy Central's "Comics to Watch" (featured on NBC's America's Got Talent, NBC's Last Comic Standing, TBS's Conan, AXS.TV’s Gotham Comedy Live, and National Geographic Channel's Brain Games, and appeared on MTV, SPIKE TV, the Discovery Channel, and the Science Channel) joins Marc Raco, Danielle Beckmann, and producer Elsie for an hilarious and energetic conversation on everything from AGT, American Idol, Harry Potter, Holocaust survivors vs. comedy, amusement park rides, a new travel TV series, a strange subway experience with transgender bullies, going from Harvard too a life of comedy, pursing magic, a joke that didn't work, and a Shark Tank-style improv game "Guppy Tank".

• Danielle shares some tips for anyone planning on visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Marc and Harrison share their experiences on America’s Got Talent from being surprised with an invite for Marc and auditioning next to a stripper dressed as a T-Rex for Harrison, to Harrison’s run on the show and eventual elimination
• Some tips to know whether you’re close to getting to the TV judges on America’s Got Talent
• Clay Aiken and why Danielle and Harrison haven’t watched American Idol in years
• Why some pop songs get away with some pretty alarming lyrical content
• Harrison’s grandparent’s story of how they met at a camp during the Holocaust
• Marc shares a strange subway experience that raises the question of legality toplessness in New York City
• How taking cabs or Ubers to/from comedy sets is a sign of making it
• Danielle shares some tips for anyone planning on visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that will definitely make your visit more magical
• Harrison finally meets someone whose favorite Disney ride is Twister
• Some interesting trivia about Coney Island and the town built for little people
• A round of Guppy Tank, where we go around and try to sell each other on ridiculous business ideas
• Harrison talks about the necktie and resonance theories of comedy and how they influence his acts as a comedian and as a magician
• How the intelligence and diligence the got Harrison to the top of his class at Harvard has extended in his work ethic as a performer
• The tendency for magicians to use comedy in their act, but not embrace it as a comedian, and what Harrison is doing to help magicians learn to use comedy effectively
• Recalculating, the travel web series Harrison hosts that’s premiering in May
• Harrison shares the backstory of a joke of his that didn’t get an expected response
• Plus, Elsie surprises us with some crunchy end of show food

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RSVP culture, an improv game reveals a fight with Jackie Chan and the origins of the yellow school bus (not really), an incredible wallpaper coincidence, lettering vs. typography, social media's impact on valuing artists, expanding vocabulary, somebody knows the theme song, and End of Show---Drink?

• Danielle shares some nerd tips for those who want to expand their vocabularies
• Brian lets us know what a letterer does, and how he came to be one
• Danielle’s miserable experience at the Brooklyn Coffee and Tea Festival, and the weird behavior that free samples sparks in crowds of people
• The issue of modern RSPV culture and how inconsiderate it can be for major events
• Wedding planning stresses and invitation nightmares (and some tips on how to combat them!)
• A round of Audible, our improv game where one of us tells a story and anyone can call and audible and prompt the storyteller to mix things up
• An appeal to the comedy gods to get Tina Fey on the show
• How Brian’s creativity has been fostered from a young age and led him to find left of center ways to make a living
• Brian and his wife’s wallpaper business, Flat Vernacular, and how a childhood wallpaper of Marc's ties into the inspiration that led to that side business
• How humor and art changes one’s viewpoint of the world, and how an appreciation for humor and comedy influences Brian’s approach to his work
• Social media’s impact on Brian’s work and how instantaneous feedback has changed how creative professionals approach their work
• Brian’s path from art school and focusing on design to discovering a passion for lettering
• The difference between a letterer and a typographer, and the difference between painting with letters and fonts
• Brian compares his old LinkedIn photo with his latest professional photoshoot
• Plus, Elsie brings in some End of Show Food and Brian surprises us with End of Show Drinks!

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Shaun Latham, comedian, host of the very successful weekly Barstool Sports show “20 Dollar Chef” as he shows fans how to cook on a budget, and host of ‘The Shaun Latham show” on SiriusXM, shares his story, humor, and wisdom.

• Danielle gives some nerd tips on how to avoid spoilers as we prep for the release of the newest Avengers film
• Some TV series recommendations, and how binge-watching shows can feel like a chore, and finishing a series or season can be a relief 
• How choosing between G.I. Joe or Space changed Marc and Shaun’s trajectories in fandoms
• An appeal to the comedy gods to get Tina Fey on the show
• A round of “What If?” where we build off each other’s pitches for a movie or TV show
• How Shaun’s trajectory in standup comedy started from a comedy contest at a work event
• The way Shaun padded his early gigs thanks to a party RV his boss provided to employees
• Moving to LA to break into the standup scene, and the struggles of having to start over in a new town
• How selling merch and opening for Gabriel Iglesias helped Shaun build up his confidence and hone his skills when things were looking bleak
• The invaluable lessons learned on the road with a major league comedian, from the business end to honing his act to be able to work in any room
• The goal of your day-to-day voice catching up with your stage voice, to where it just feels like you’re talking on stage instead of putting on an act
• Some of the stand up comedians Shaun has encountered over the years who have stood out to him
• How important a unique perspective is to comedy, and how some comedians are wise beyond their years
• Shaun’s “crying on the couch” moment,  how he overcame the feelings of despair and the harsh reality of poverty and found the will and hope to push forward and succeed
• The importance of perseverance and “staying in line”
• How a move to Indianapolis and meeting the right people led to Shaun being a member of Morty’s Pugs and getting more gigs
• How 20 Dollar Chef, Shaun’s comedy cooking show, got started and his goals to help his viewers build character and not take the easy way out
• The important relationship lessons learned by cooking together
• Shaun’s SiriusXM show, The Shaun Latham Show, and how he built the team of personalities that make the show unique
• What “making it” would mean for Shaun 
• Shaun walks us through the process behind two jokes he’s proud of
• Plus, Elsie brings in some squishy snacks for End of Show Food!

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Entertainer Lauren Mayhew (@lolomayhew) joins Marc Raco (@racomarc), producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer), and guest host Lois Herzeca (MouthMedia Network) in the MouthMedia Network studios powered by Sennheiser.

• A celebrity encounter with Mick Jagger turns embarrassing
• Meeting Cyndi Lauper and Johnny Depp
• Does Steven VanZandt want to shiv Marc?
• Tiny men in Hollywood
• A scary surprise  on the train
• A rhyme of the making up songs on the spot with the improv game “Mish Mosh Mix”
• Lauren’s new song “Come with Me” is just one of thousands she has written
• Voicing video game voices, animated series, acting, dancing, DJ-ing at a high level, and more
• Connecting to humor in acting scenes
• Learning to DJ, and staying on the edge of new music
• Painting with sound
• Does Lauren want to e a superhero, and action star?
• Interjecting vs. interrupting
• Becoming a WWE ring announcer and being a part of the WWE Universe
• Performing in front of massive audiences
• Performing in a girl band as opening act for Britney Spears, NSYNC, Destiny’s Child, and other huge acts on tour
• Singing to Michael Jackson at his birthday, and at the Super Bowl pregame
• What it is like to rip your pants in front of 50,000 people
• Lauren reveals a detour she took which she’s never mentioned publicly before, which also led to the scariest thing she ever did in her life
• Developing a skill as a social media influencer
• Giving Keys
• A girlband reunion?
• And –stout jerky?

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Jason Chatfield, Australian cartoonist & comedian and Australia’s most widely syndicated cartoonist, producing the iconic comic strip Ginger Meggswhich appears daily in over 120 newspapers in 34 countries, and co-host of the podcast “Is There Something In This?”, joins Marc Raco and Danielle Beckmann in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Danielle fills us in on her upcoming role in the Shelter theater company production of , where she plays an actor playing a starfleet captainQuantum Attraction
• A nerd tip about some interesting cereals, some of which you’ll want to avoid
• Danielle’s lifelong love for rice  goes under the spotlight
• We play a round of “Star Trek Password,” where someone gives clues while we try to guess their Star Trek-themed word
• Jason’s road to comedy and being a cartoonist, and how going to school for drama shaped his approach
• The difference between “word first” and “picture first” cartoonists, and how Jason developed his creative process for the page and the stage
• How having a writer partner has shaped his workflow and led to his own podcast
• “Ginger Meggs” the syndicated comic Jason is now the cartoonist for, which has been running daily since the 1920s
• The approach Jason takes when handling a comic strip with a long history versus The New Yorker or his own standup where he can more freely express himself
• Why single panel comics are harder than one might expect
• Jason’s “scotch and bath” Sunday ritual 
• How Jason’s standup routine has evolved over the years, and how he uses his status as an immigrant in 2019 America as a way to connect with his audiences
• The process of working through tough material and knowing when you leave a joke behind
• How Jason keeps an open mind for the future of his career

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Actress and comedian Kathy Searle (Baby Mama, My Man Is a Loser, Body of Proof, Blue Bloods, Gossip Girl, and Lipstick Jungle, etc.) joins Marc Raco and Danielle Beckman in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Danielle highlights Girls Who Code, Moms Can:Code and Kode With Klossy, nonprofits that help women pursue careers in the tech industry
• Marc and Danielle share their experiences of revising old places of work, and how things can feel nostalgic even as they’ve changed over time
• An on-the-fly round of “Old People News,” where a reporter can’t get through a breaking news report without cracking
• Why acting at the Williamstown Theater was one of the most profound moments of Kathy’s career
• Learning from Faith Ford, Kelly Ripa, and Ted McGinely while guest starring on Hope and Faith, the first multi camera sitcom Kathy has worked on
• An appeal to the Comedy Gods to get Tina Fey on the show
• They joys of getting positive feedback on set from actors and crew after a take
• The importance of being in the moment while acting and being on set
• Kathy tells us how a bird’s stray BM on the set of Baby Momma got Tina Fey and Amy Poehler laughing with her, not at her
• Danielle and Kathy share their experiences of working together at The Actor’s Studio, and how weaving stories and roles together makes for a stronger overall show
• The difficulty of being “in the moment” when playing comedic roles, and finding the balance between reading the audience and focusing on the interactions on the set
• The importance of wardrobe and styling in returning to a familiar character 
• Learning to hone the craft of acting by working with Anna Chlumsky and the “lucid body” technique
• The importance of remembering that despite anyone’s status or reputation, that we’re all human beings 
• Kathy’s goals as an actor, and why philanthropy is so important to her
• Why perseverance and longevity is such an important factor in building a career in acting
• The dangers of the “compare and despair” pitfall that’s so prevalent, especially with social media
• Plus, since Elsie is on jury duty, everyone shares the strangest thing that happened to them this week!

The post Actress and Comedian Kathy Searle – More Laughs Per Second appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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Mika Kenyah (@mikakenyah),  Sr. Marketer in Gaming & Tech, Writer, Director & Horror Fanatic, podcaster, actress, and comedian, joins hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• A cola challenge
• Zoom and Jolt Cola
• Danielle is a birder
• The Tine Fey Appeal
• What the “E” in Chuck E. Cheese stands for
• Thankless giving
• Tipping in restaurants that don’t require service 
• Restaurant jobs and smelling like french fries
• Discovering new episodes of Star Trek!
• The Moody News – sex robots for birds, throwing baby out with the bathwater, Nicole Kidman, and more
• The fear of gum
• How Mika is connected with Oprah in the cosmos
• Being a comedy writer, content creator, and marketer in video games
• Starting a career from Vine
• Posting 6-second movie parodies (and getting paid!)
• Living “out there”
• A focus on horror
• Mika’s new podcast and horror short film
• A Latina voice and empowering women in creative roles
• End of Show Food gets a rare 3 out of 4 perfect scores!

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Marc Raco (@racomarc) and Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) record for the first time together in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• A union for subway beggars?
• Why Vulcan ears can earn trust on a date
• Getting to know Danielle,  joy rockets, and Jillian Richardsons’s “The Joy List”
• Giving value to humans
• Being a nerd and discovering a mutual love of Star Trek
• The new Star Trek show Star Trek Discovery and Marc’s birthday
• Being from California
• The New York factor and walking with purpose
• 21 Rapid Fire Questions
• The Listerine guy on the subway
• A Kate Mulgrew moment
• Near misses with Tina Fey
• Being authentic in everything you do
• A round of the improv game “The Meh News” coverts toothbrushing and ant-frying
• The sentiment of the “hump day”

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“Triple threat” entertainer Phillip Attmore (@phillipattmore – three-time Astaire Award winner, ACCA Award winner, Playbill “Breakout Performance” Award winner and NAACP Theatre Award nominee, and he has been recognized by the sixth season of Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance” as one of America’s “Top 20” dancers), joins hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Danielle fills us in on a new game she’s been playing which leads to some startling ocean facts from Elsie
• Marc recounts the latest update in his digital dealings with William Shatner
• The gang figures out how many degrees from Kevin Bacon they are
• Danielle fills everyone in on the Green Lady, her local Brooklyn celebrity
• A round of Silver Lining improv
• Phillip discusses the importance of storytelling and honing your craft offstage
• What being a visionary means to Phillip
• #dailydanceitout and why creating something daily is important
• The difference between approaching acting as a commercial/ professional path versus acting for the sake of acting
• Knowing when to take a break, when to reflect, and when to take work for the sake of it
• Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and the need to take time to act and express in ways that may not be commercially acceptable
• The moment Phillip felt like he had achieved something with his craft
• Shuffle Along, and working with Audra McDonald, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and Billy Porter
• Facing the “golden handcuffs” of a long-running Broadway production, and knowing when it is or isn’t the right time to step away for your own integrity, and how risky that can be
• The physical demands of the roles Phillip has played, and how he stays healthy and inspired
• The etymology of “break a leg”
• Plus, Elsie surprises everyone with some spicy End of Show Food!

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Lucy Kalantari (@lucytoon), 2019 Grammy Winner (Lucy Kalantari and The Jazz Cats – Best Children’s Album), joins hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Danielle’s new “side gig” with too many Pixie Sticks?
• A music-themed nerd tip of the week that will either mean a lot or very little to people with a love for synthesizers
• Marc shares how he and Lucy first met, and the role she played in his proposal to his fiancee
• The perils of working on a laptop on the subway, and the general lack of awareness of personal space we encounter on our daily life
• Danielle shares a story of how a friend bumped into Bill Pullman on the train and how working a toy fair at the Javitz Center led to playing Pictionary with Ron Howard
• A round of our new improv game, “Musical Breakup,” where two people since their way through a parting of ways in conflicting musical styles
• Lucy’s love for cartoons and why having the twitter handle @lucytoon helps her keep things light on social media
• The experience of being nominated for, and ultimately winning, a Grammy for best children’s album
• The happy coincidence where Lucy learned about her Grammy nomination on her son Darius’ birthday
• All that goes into receiving a Grammy, from finding out you’ve been nominated the same way everyone finds out who the nominees are, to figuring out what to wear, to making through the junkets in time to receiving your trophy with 15 minutes to spare, and hearing the walk off music play during your speech
• What it was like sharing such a career milestone with her son on stage next to her
• Meeting Linda Perry and Fantastic Negrito at the Grammys
• How winning a Grammy has solidified Lucy’s sense of community as a musician and performer
• The evolution of Lucy’s relationship with her album “All The Sounds,” from the moments of inspiration for the songs to now after the album has been so well received
• The themes behind the album, and how her approach with songwriting went for a more realistic and somewhat darker approach compared to her earlier albums like “Pockets Full of Joy”
• Revising “All The Sounds” after winning the Grammy and finding satisfaction in accomplishing what she set out to create
• Plus, Elsie surprises everyone with a type of jerky that’s healthier than anyone would expect!

The post Grammy Winner Lucy Kalantari – The Answer is Yes appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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Fast-rising actress, stand-up comedian and writer Gina Brillon (@gbrillon) , guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser. Find Gina at www.ginabrillon.net .

• Danielle shares some helpful tips for anyone who works a 9-5 desk job
• Marc brings in some weird science to the group, are cats solid or liquid? Is .999999 equal to 1? Is math broken?
• Some long-misheard song lyrics, and our tendency as a society to shorten things excessively
• A round of our new improv game, “If I Were In Charge of the World,” where we take turns solving everyday problems in big ways
• A (very brief) look into Elsie’s world, which involves an ill-advised pet playdate that also involves Gina and her pet ferrets
• The joys and pains of being a ferret, and dog, and cat owner
• Some of Gina’s favorite horror movies and TV shows, like V, Beast Master, and the Puppet Master series
• The need for true passion and commitment to make it as a comedian
• What draw Gina to comedy as a young child, and how comedy can help us heal in rough times
• A quick rundown of the difference between accents in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens
• What inspires Gina’s material and the importance of using comedy to bring people from different backgrounds together
• The types of mentalities that make for a good crowd vs. a bad crowd
• How Gina deal with hecklers, and why it’s unfair for some comedy clubs to expect the comics to deal with people interrupting their act instead of policing their own rooms
• Two moments in Gina’s career that felt like she had made it as a professional comedian
• Plus, Elsie brings in some marshmallow-y surprises for this episode’s end of show food which approach perfection!

The post Comedian Gina Brillon – Up and Come and Gonna Do Some More appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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Actress/Producer Alysia Reiner (@alysiareiner) guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser. Recorded in front of a live audience.

Alysia is best known as “Fig”” on ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK for which she won a SAG award.  Her dark-comedic feature about motherhood, EGG, premiered at Tribeca film festival 2018, and was released in January 2019. Reiner stars with Christina Hendricks and Anna Camp, and serves as a producer. She is passionately committed to protecting the environment (see livariclothing.com) and being a change maker for women.

• Danielle shares some nerd tips for anyone looking for an agreeable (robotic) date
• The case at CES this past year where a robotic sex toy had its award for innovation revoked for being “immoral,” and the gender biases in that industry
• Alysia’s new film, “Egg”
• The film’s 70% female cast and crew
• The approach they took to produce the film much like a play, following the script closely and shooting in a manner that allowed for longer takes
• The challenges as an actor and producer to prepare for shooting a film in this way
• A round of “Recycled Movie Pitch,” where we combine two movies that are in no way connected, and have to pitch that hypothetical film
• Alysia’s experience playing Fig on Orange Is the New Black, and navigating her character’s dramatic arc over the course of the show
• How Alysia’s personality and work ethic on set may have influenced her character’s arc from a stereotypically mean character to one with more depth
• Alysia’s belief that most people truly believe that they are doing their best and are trying to be a source of good, even if they may seem bad to others, and how that influenced her portrayal of Fig
• Staying true to a character’s role in the story or the specific scene, rather than trying to be funny or to steal scenes to show off your ability
• Alysia’s respect for comedians and comedy and why she’s still intimidated working with comedians she’s worked with for years
• The challenges of returning to a character like Fig each season after months of working on other projects and other characters
• How the makeup and costume design for Fig help her get in character, and which pieces Alysia would take home if she could
• Why Alysia takes pride in being called a character actor
• How Alysia’s notoriety has turned her daughter off from acting 
• Why producing roles are so important to Alysia as a way of supporting more women working in the industry
• Plus, Elsie brings in a very bizarre seltzer for end of show food!

The post Alysia Reiner – “OITNB” and “Egg” Actress – #FIGALICIOUS appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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Sam Jones (@therealsamjones), copywriter, comedy writer, and the director and star of At Home with Sam Jones; a Funny or Die comedy channel,  guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Danielle’s nerd tip of the week turns into a deep dive into the history of Star Trek
• Marc’s accidental run-in with a furry convention in his hotel’s convention center, and the ways social media has exposed us to all sorts of ways we let our freak flags fly and get through the day from ASMR to true crime podcasts to shark attack videos
• Reality TV and the pleasure we take from watching people we don’t know go through the ups and downs of unscripted life
• Learning to push through feeling jealousy when seeing other succeed (or pleasure when people fail) and being your own cheerleader instead of dwelling on negativity
• A round of  “Meh News,” where someone announces uneventful events as if they were thrilling breaking news
• Why Sam calls herself a “professional fluffer” (just not in the porn sense), as a writer/comedian who works in a variety of mediums
• How Sam’s childhood (and present) relationships have influenced her comedically and serve as a basis for the show she’s scripting based on her life called  Indecent Exposure
• Why Sam prefers writing over standup, and why she feels the stories she tells may translate better to that medium
• How taking improv classes have changed Sam’s comfort with performing her own material
• Sam’s process doing copyediting for brands, looking to find comedy through truth and authenticity to connect with viewers rather than alienating people by showing unrealistic ideals
• Why some celebrities who have not accomplished anything other than being aspirations of wealth are seen as influencers, when there are everyday people with more to offer
• Appreciating the marketing genius of Kris Jenner
• Sam’s victory on a Food Network competition where two comedians (who can’t cook) compete to make Hanukkah donuts from scratch
• How comedy and media should be uplifting and inspiring, and why Sam wants to be someone whose works makes people feel good
• The importance of accepting the good and the bad aspects of life, and why it’s okay to curse (just maybe not around kids)
• Star Trek: Discovery, and the backlash regarding the decision to only stream through CBS All Access
• Marc impresses Danielle with some of his Trek swag
• Plus, Elsie brings in another surprise for our end of show food!

The post Comedian Sam Jones – Raising the Collective Vibe appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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Actor Ato Essandoh (The Code, Elementary, Blue Bloods, Vinyl, Altered Carbon, Copper – @atoessandoh) guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Ato fills us in on his role in an upcoming CBS primetime drama, “The Code”
• Danielle shares some nerdy finance tips for budgeting
• Marc recounts his painful viewing experience with Lindsay Lohan’s Beach Club, and the bizarre allure of reality TV
• Marc and Danielle share their own appearances on some reality TV shows
• Learning the hard way not to rest your hopes on every role you land
• A round of “The Big Announcement”, a new game where it’s all in the delivery 
• Ato’s path from working smaller roles in shows like Elementary to roles on Vinyl, Altered Carbon, all leading to being cast on The Code
• How Ato’s work got him noticed by an executive producer to get on the shortlist 
• The reality of being a working actor in primetime TV
• Remembering what the job really is when you’re auditioning
• The importance of confidence and composure
• What Ato’s goals are for his career
• The road from Ato’s audition to landing the role and playing guitar on Vinyl in front of Martin Scorsese
• Plus, Elsie surprises everyone with a liquid edition of End of Show Food

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Nicole Monente, the creative mind behind the popular observational humor cartoon series Scribbles by Nicole (@scribblesbynicole), guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Danielle gets nerdy about fonts and D&D
• Marc and the crew wonder if costume shops cater to furries as well as Times Square character impersonators
• The dark side of the NYC subway system
• The debut of  the new improv game “Justify This!” includes a beat-up ice cream truck, a social media campaign for leopards, an awards show fashion protest, and a sandwich shop firing
• How and why Nicole started Scribbles
• Building a following on Instagram with your art
• Finding inspiration in everyday moments
• How Scribbles has helped Nicole in her daily life
• The ways Nicole has monetized her work
• Why Nicole started Scribbles anonymously and how she made the decision to take ownership of her work 
• How Instagram lets Nicole interact with fans all over the world
• Resisting the urge to let Instagram post insights on posts drive Nicole’s creative inspiration
• And Elsie brings in another surprising chocolatey surprise in this week’s End of Show Food!

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Comedian, writer and actor Mark Normand (@marknormand), who also cot-hosts the podcast “Tuesdays with Stories“, guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Obscure nerd dating sites
• Comic vs. Comedian
• Is Comedienne an archaic term?
• Upcoming biopics
• Uncomfortable (and expensive) Uber rides
• A round of “What’s on Elsie’s Socks?”
• The debut and finale of “Famous Last Words”!
• What drives Mark’s passion for comedy and his career goals
• The division of standup, improv, and acting
• Comedy as a way of connecting with people
• Comedy as a meritocracy and the “necktie” theory
• The pains and gains of writing material
• What makes a joke work or not work
• Elsie brings in a sour End of Show Food! 

The post Mark Normand – The Necktie Theory appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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A firefighting wrestler gets married to a stranger on a TV show, a friendship starts with a broken bottle over the head, a spooky prediction on the subway, the reality of being a reality star, a Kardashian who matters, an epic marriage proposal, a cat saxophonist, pickles. Plus, an improv comedy game creates a brand new wacky reality TV show, and much more!

Jason Carrion (@bklynbad), star of the Lifetime reality TV series “Married at First Sight”, professional wrestler, and FDNY Firefighter, guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

In this episode:

• Salsa vs. salsa
• Rick and Morty origins related to Marty McFly?
• Marc gets spooked by a guy in the subway
• Finding friends who ghost you
• A fight and a broken bottle result in a friendship Married at First Sight
• Reality shows
• A round of the improv game of What If brings DeVito, Schwarzenegger, a new kind of reality show, Last Comic standing in Home Depot, knock-knock jokes and Carl gets a Wife
• The decision to do a reality show in which you get married to a stranger, a rough few months of marriage, the strain of becoming a firefighter, a wrestling alter ego
• Losing a mom and sharing her art
• The reality of being a reality star
• Angie Kardashian, an American hero after 9/11
• Marc tells the story of his epic marriage proposal
• Elsie on her jazz band and the sax-playing cat
• End of Show Food gets the gang into a pickle

The post Jason Carrion – A Reality Star, A Wrestler, and a Fireman Walk Into a Bar… appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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Dara Pollak (@skinnypignyc), founder of The Skinny Pig (a social media, marketing, and branding consultant for hospitality groups and restaurants around the country, as well as a recipe developer for national brands), guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in the MouthMedia Network studio powered by Sennheiser.

• Real trained squirrels with Johnny Depp, and the Squirrel Actor’s Guild
• Advertising that is pushing the envelope, as enough businesses and people that are deciding a new reality of advertising
• Fighting in public
• A Medieval festival
• Star Trek Vodka!
• Everyone’s mixed-up dreams
• Dream analysis
• The epic Pee Wee Herman dream
• A horrible accident changing Dara’s life path and earns her the nickname “Superwoman”
• Creating The Skinny Pig brand
• Everything bacon!
• The United States of Bacon song
• How food connected with Dara
• A ghost pepper chicken wing
• What restaurants are doing wrong with their food
• La Pecora Bianca, Flex Mussels, and ROKC restaurants
• An hilarious round of the improv game “Audible” involves Tom Cruise, piranhas, and foie gras, and the worst Thanksgiving ever
• Plus, Matcha makes an appearance in End of Show Food

The post Dara Pollak of The Skinny Pig – Tastes Like Space appeared first on Funny People Talking Podcast.

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Klarity (@klarity — a.k.a. Greg Davis Jr.), comedian, actor, producer, and global social media powerhouse, guests with hosts Marc Raco (@racomarc), Danielle Beckmann (@deebeck) and producer Elsie (@elsietheproducer) in front of a live audience. Special musical appearance by accomplished guitarist Stephen Benson. Presented with the support of GIVZ and Smashmallow. Special thanks to John Di Domenico.

• How Klarity amassed such a following on Vine and Instagram
• Some nerd tips from Danielle to help survive gaming with family this holiday season
• A round of “What Would Arnold Do?”
• Some uncomfortable MTA experiences
• The many differences between New York and LA
• Whether or not it’s okay to mix your cereals
• Everyone makes up some songs on the fly in a round of “Mish Mosh Mix”
• Klarity shares his influences, how he found his calling, and what dramatic incident inspired him to move to LA
• Why Klarity’s mom is his biggest inspiration as a performer
• The inaugural round of “Rollercoaster Argument”
• Elsie picks a winner with the first “End of Show Food”, sponsored by Smashmallow!

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