In this week’s podcast we are talking sketch comedy with the always wonderful Kimmy Gatewood and the hilarious Pangea 3000.  We caught up with them at this year’s Sketchfest NYC but we wouldn’t be surprised if by now they’re all starring in the next (Insert Huge Comedy Movie That You Subjectively Like).

Last week Michael Ian Black totally lost his shit on stage when an audience member compared Obama to Hitler.  Personally I’m glad he did it.  The audience member, not so much.

In this episode we look at how much a comedian should put their own politics and opinions into their act.  What is their responsibility to the audience?  What is their responsibility to themselves?

Also, find out what’s so special about September 2nd and why it makes Dan a happy (but very sad) person.

photo from flickr by lochnessjess

In the week’s episode, we answer some questions from the mailbag. One listener wanted to know the best cities to do comedy in. We spoke on the topic with surprising authority considering 95% of the shows we’ve ever done have been in New York. Another listener asked about when thriving comedy scenes suddenly dry up, and what, if anything, you can do about it. Answer: cry. A lot.

Plus! Be the first on your block to buy Christmas Garbage Shoot Monster! Dustin stars in the lamest Death Wish sequel ever! And Dan will ruin your day. Guaranteed.

Thievery. In the comedy world there is no greater crime. Should you ever steal? The answer is simple: No. Never. Don’t do it. Except…

What if you come up with something on your own, only to discover there is something similar out there? What if you were doing something first, then a more popular comedian starts doing something like it? What if a comic has a great premise, but they are doing a horrible job of developing it? Can you go in like comedy child services, take it away and give it a better home in your act? And what about all those (alleged) joke thieves that seem to be doing quite well for themselves? Why should you play the game when crime seems to pay so well? We’ll talk about all of it in this completely original episode that is nothing like you’ve ever heard ever!

photo from flickr by cjkarr

Let me tell you a story about something that really happened to me. I recorded a podcast about how much personal material should you talk about on stage. Some people reveal every last terrible detail of their lives. But do you want to walk around in the world having everyone know your deepest, darkest secrets? What about the people in your life, can you talk about things they may have done? Or do barriers equal the death of creativity and comedy, so just throw it all out there? I pee in the shower. There I said. Deal with it America.

Plus! Dan and Dustin are the Aces of Terrible Cakes! CHiPs is back, for some reason. And why is it so hard to give away your internal organs?

from flickr by nepolon

Is there a big comedian of which you are a fan? If so, then Carl Arnheiter has probably talked to them on his fantastic show Inside Joke. Carl specializes in smart, fun, insightful talks with the biggest names in comedy. This week we talk to Carl about some of the people he’s talked to and what he’s learned about comedy while doing it. Carl tells us how the show got started (it involves Jon Stewart, so it’s a pretty good story), and how it has evolved. If you like good talk about comedy, this is the episode for you.

Plus! Did you know there were caddies in the movie “Caddyshack”? Suing younger versions of yourself for defamation: The hot new way to make money? And the dangers of watching too much British comedy, Guv’ner.

photo from inside-joke.com, by Andrew Dickerson.

The comedy club. Perhaps no other words in the English Language fill a comic with such a strange mixture of excitement and dread. Comedy clubs are where the people are, the people who have paid to have you make them laugh. They are also the place of annoying owners, broken mic stands, uncomfortable greenrooms, and drunk hecklers. This week, we try and imagine what the perfect comedy club would look like. Come along with us, to the land of imagination! (The land of imagination has a two-drink minimum).

Plus! Dustin in prison! No more bad comedy club names! And I would pay anything to see The Coen Brother’s “Garfield”.

photo from flickr by josewolff

This week we’re joined by guests Lou Fernandez and Rachel Korowitz as we review the 30 Rock adult parody. We watched it in Dustin’s living room, and then recorded our reactions. I thought watching a movie like that with friends would be awkward but instead, it turned out to be very very awkward. You might notice that this post is a little strangely worded, but that’s because there are certain words that would get us blocked by certain sites, so let me see if I can explain this in a way you’ll understand. You see, when a Mommy who sort of looks like Tina Fey and a Daddy who supposedly looks like Alec Baldwin, but not really, love each other very much and go onto a chintzy looking set with a picture of Miami in the background and a camera crew is there and… Oh, on second thought, just listen to the episode.

photo from flickr by Josephwashere

This week comedian Ben Kissel stops by to talk to us about using pop culture as a basis for your comedy. Sure, it’s a good way to get a quick laugh, but if you’re not careful, your jokes may have the shelf life of Vanilla Ice and Justin Bieber fighting to the death with pet rocks and pogs. Done masterfully though, and it can not only be great, but transcend the time and place it was created. Also, remember pogs? Oh man. Pogs.

Plus! Hot in the city! Demolition Man! Silly Bandz! And don’t you hate when you suddenly realize you forgot to do spy stuff?

You can check out Ben’s website here, his podcast here, and and his sh!t list here.

This week we are reporting from the FrISC, which is the Friars Club Improv and Sketch Competition. 5 Sketch teams and 5 Improv teams went up against each other and the winner went home with $10,000 to make a short film that will be shown at the Friars Club Film Festival. Dan talks to Sue Constantine, executive director of FrISC, L.A. sketch team “The Midnight Show”, and (spoiler alert!) sketch winners “Harvard Sailing Team” and Sylvia Ozols and Zach Woods of the winning improv team “The Stepfathers”. And get an peak inside the famed Friars Club (well, it’s audio, so I guess that would be a whisper inside?) We have more talks with other sketch and improv teams from the competition we’ll be putting up on the website all week, so be sure to come on by and check ‘em out!

There is ESPN Classic. There is VH1 Classic. There is Boomerang (which is like Cartoon Network Classic). There is the History Channel, The Military Channel and the Military History Channel.* So with all these channels, this week Dan and Dustin, along with special guest Michael Hartney, humbly suggest a channel that doesn’t exist, but we wish it did: Comedy Central Classic. We present what our schedules would be for this non-existent (but would totally awesome if it did exist) TV network. Where would you schedule reruns of Strip Mall? Would “Make Me Laugh” still make you laugh? Are you willing to give Marc Maron a little attention and watch “Short Attention Span Theater”? Well curl up on the couch, put on your iPod, and let’s all pretend like it’s 1996 all over again.

Plus! Truth bombs are dropping on the England! We have a sitcom emergency. And a little town called Taloosa.

*Not a joke.

In this week’s episode we take a look at the comedy writing lingo and the rules of Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker, the film making trio that brought you Airplane!, The Naked Gun and Top Secret! Showing that even in comedies as seemingly scattershot as the ZAZ films, there is a method to the madness. You have to know why the rules work before you break them, or you may find you have deadly silence in places where you were expecting laughs to be. (I’ve been there. It’s not fun.)

Plus! Soccer talk! The confusing corporate structures of “The Office”. We totally recognize people on “Last Comic Standing”. And a desperate plea for a listeners to google something. We would do it ourselves, but you know, we’re, like, busy and stuff.

Sketchfest NYC 2010 has come and gone. You tell yourself to just relax and enjoy it, but it’s hard to stuff that much fun into a single weekend and before you know it, you are waking up a little hungover with aching stomach muscles and smelling vaguely of cigarettes and a McDonald’s dumpster and Sketchfest is over. But we did our best to capture as much of the magic as we could in our own fleeting way through the power of some microphones, a Macbook, and maybe a little something called The Power of Love (or maybe it was “I Want a New Drug”, it’s hard to remember). So sit back and listen to these interviews with sketch comedy powerhouses B.O.F., Two Man No Show, FUCT, Team Submarine, and Audience of Two and keep the spirit alive. Remember, it’s only 362 more days until next year’s Sketchfest!

Don’t forget to check out interviews with Fearsome, Two Fun Men, and Dave and Ethan at thecomedynerds.com.

MacGruber was the first SNL movie released in a decade and the box office, to put in gently, was a little disappointing. On this week’s episode, we take a look at the history of SNL movies, and see how each fared both commercially and artistically. And no matter how much money they made, or what the critics thought, every one of these movies has a group of fans that love it (okay, maybe not It’s Pat, but personally, I really liked Stuart Saves His Family). Will we have to wait another decade for an SNL movie to appear, or will we soon be lining up to see Here Comes Gilly? Only time will tell.

Plus! Betty White is the Highlander. Dudley get molested. We got the Gute. And why won’t Tom Selleck just buy a damn helicopter all ready!

In this week’s episode a rabbi, a priest and two podcasters walk into a bar and…ah forget it, those are never funny.  This week we look at religions place in comedy.

How does having faith in a God of some kind effect your sense of humor?  Can you make good jokes about God that aren’t sacrilegious?  Are most comedians going to burn in hell?  Will Dan get some angry letters for his comments at the end of the podcast.  I can tell you for sure that the answer is yes to at least one of those questions.

photo from flickr by Gustavo (lu7frb)

On this week’s episode we talk about the television upfronts. Every year the networks put on a big show and present what they have coming in next year. “It’s a family that gets super powers! Ta da!”  It’s all for the advertisers, but we peek through a hole in the fence Little Rascals-style and give you who-that and the what-for of the coming TV season. What new shows will premier? What beloved favorites are canceled? What shows will start a half hour earlier then they currently do? Can you feel it? Taste it? This is the new excitement.

Also? Tom Selleck buys a helicopter and water balloons. A talking dog with shifty eyes. And we say CougarTown a lot. I mean, like, a lot.

photo from flickr by same_same

On this week’s episode, we do nothing less than try and help the youth of America. After all, I believe the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Isn’t that nice? I wrote that.

Anyway, we got an email from a listener who is about to graduate high school and wants to someday host his own late-night talk show. So we talk about what he (and maybe you) can do to get there. We tried to be both encouraging and discouraging (because, let’s face it, we’re talking about an field with a extremely low success rate), but we love this stuff too much and end up being just straight up encouraging. What can we say? We’re just too positive. We let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be. Yeah, that’s nice.

photo from flickr by Mr. Mark

There are some questions that are impossible to answer:  What is the meaning of life? How do you define beauty?  Why is Betty White So Awesome?  In this episode we try to answer at least one of those questions.

Her Facebook induced SNL appearance was one of the most anticipated episodes in recent history, but why?  Could anyone else have created such a buzz?  Let us know what you think!

photo from flickr by The Enabler

In this week’s episode Dustin and Dan take an in depth look at, oh forget it. Just forget it. Writing these things is too hard. I quit. I just quit.

Naaaah, I’m just joshing with ya. But that did illustrate the topic this week: Quitting. You’ll hear a lot of good advice about sticking it out, not giving up on yourself, finishing what you started, all the Puritan work ethic stuff. But what if the best thing you can do is pull up stakes, leave a brief note and get the heck out of there? This week we’ll discuss how to know when you should give up. Grab a six-pack of Miller High Life, because it’s Quitting Time!

photo from flickr by Zoë Campbell

This week we break down the top 5 Daily Show correspondents of all time.  Seriously, this was hard.  They are all funny.  But someone had to do it (read your Bibles people, it is in there) and we took on the task.

Did your favorite make the list?  Take a listen and find out.  Let us know in the comments who you think should be on the top 5.

This week we recorded the show live on the internet and listeners wrote in to comment. We’re going to do it again soon, so if you’d like to listen and talk to us and other Comedy Nerds fans, watch this site and we’ll let you know the next time we go live!

We welcomed Comedy Nerds favorite Nick Turner back to talk about Conan O’Brien’s decision to move his show to TBS, land of Tyler Perry and “Just Shoot Me” reruns. Is it a bad idea? Or is it so crazy it just might work? And if it does, what will that do to your DVR queue? Oh, the trials and tribulations of the modern person…

Plus! The birth of Jazz Legend, and the death of nerdy character Nick Turner. The sexual orientation of Dan’s laugh. And universality of Channel 9.

Folks, some weeks we have a show for you and some weeks we have a show. Know what I’m saying? You don’t? Hmm. Let me start over.

This week we welcome the delightful Abbi Crutchfield and Andrew Singer (who is also known as Soce, The Elemental Wizard, which is only like the best name ever). They talk about co-producing and co-hosting their show Positively Awesome. Perhaps their tales will teach Dan and Dustin a thing or two about peacefully co-hosting a show. But probably not.

Plus! When is a comedy show like “American Gladiators”? (hint: when it’s awesome!) A bubble-boy bit fails to pay off! Trust falls! And we play a track from Soce called “Running Free”.

See what I’m saying people? That is a show!

Image from flickr by lonesome:cycler

They said it couldn’t be done. But we did it. It’s done. It happened. Get used to it. The Comedy Nerds has hit it’s 100th episode.

And to commemorate this auspicious occasion, The (Wo)man. The Myth. The Legend. Sound Engineer has stepped out from behind the audio console and in front of a microphone. She’ll talk about overcoming stage fright and making it to 100 episodes.

Plus! I am the man who will fight for your honor. I’ll be the hero you’re dreaming. We’ll live forever, knowing together that we did it all for the glory of love. 100!!!

In this week’s episode we welcome comedic actress and character maven Ann Carr. She talks with us about how she comes up with the characters she brings to the stage, and her new web series “The Actress”. And we get all James Lipton and ask if we can “meet” a few of these crazy folks inside her head.

Plus! Dan pitches Ann on his screenplay involving six different sizes of fat suits. A bowl of five thousand brown M&M’s. AND INSIDE JOKE ATTACK!!!!

Photo by Anya Garrett.

In this week’s episode we go over the list “Date Night ” director Shawn Levy had in the latest issue of “Entertainment Weekly” on how to direct comedians in a movie. Do you need to treat comedians like they are bratty little children? We want to say no, but the answer is, yeah, probably.

Plus! Dustin once again bests Dan in an imaginary future full of pointless inventions. The hilarious outtake reel from “Schindler’s List” that is no doubt out there somewhere. And “Sad News From The Past” gets happy!

picture from flickr by dreamagicjp

On this week’s show we discuss seizing opportunities, and we seized the opportunity to have the always fantastic Kenny Zimlinghaus come on and help us work it out. It’s a rough world out there, no matter how good you are you’ll get kicked in the teeth a few times. How do you keep your spirits up and recognize a good chance when it comes along? And can you learn to be happy with what you all ready have?

Plus! Would this be a better show if it was “Friends Nerds”? Lindsey Lohan lets us know she is a filthy drunken skank. And DIG UP THE GRAVE! DIG UP THE GRAVE! DIG UP THE GRAVE! DIG IT UP!

This week’s episode of The Comedy Nerds is filmed in front of a live studio audience. Okay, not really but we did discuss that strange beast known at as the studio audience. A group of strangers you can’t see who have been carefully primed to laugh and cheer at everything you say and do.

How do you avoid becoming spoiled by this? Can you tell the difference when they applaud for you, and when they applaud just because the “Applause” sign lit up? Oh it is a conundrum, I’ll tell you that.

Plus! I’m not out of order! You’re out of order! It’s my football now! A break in our Cold Case! And once a upon a time, someone got kicked by a pony.

photo from flickr by Your Secret Admiral

This week we ask the question “Is comedy cool?” On one hand, a lot of cool people seem to like it, so that’s cool. But comedians do a lot of ridiculous, humiliating things. That’s not cool. Dan and Dustin will try to get to the bottom of it, while contemplating the cool paradox: if you try to be cool, you are not cool, if you don’t try to be cool, you are cool. Unless you’re not. But then maybe the sheer amount of your uncoolness makes you cool. I know three things that are definitely cool no matter what though, smoking behind the school, hoverboards, and recording an entire episode about whether something is cool or not. Bam! Super-cool!

Plus! Why did celebrities take second jobs on Scooby Doo? The rules that govern 80s movie house parties. And we decide to Cold Case that shit. Let’s do this!

Conan said “don’t be cynical”.  That’s easy for him to say.  He’s got to host The Tonight Show and then got a check for a billion dollars to not host The Tonight Show.  What about the rest of us?  Comedy is so frequently about explaining how screwed up the world is that it seems only natural that all those godless angry comedians would be cynical.

In this week’s podcast we determine if  comedians can avoid being cynical, explain why random eggs on the street make Dustin a better comedian and reveal who Dan’s not so secret man crush is.  Also, how cute is that puppy?  You can’t be cynical looking at the face.  Problem solved!

Yo kid, this we’ve got the street thug/stand-up comedian known as TMC (a.k.a. Tom McCaffrey) in the studio to bust so dope rhymes and dazzle with his flow.  God, I am so damn gangsta its crazy.

Tom teaches up the art of proper comedy rap, we discuss life on the mean streets of NYC and he drops a little freestyle on us.  Kick it!

All right, let’s all take it down a notch. This week we welcome rising comedy star Dave Hill to talk about low energy comedy. It takes a special kind of talent to pull off low energy comedy, and Dave is a master at it. Whether on this own talk show, the Dave Hill Explosion or his TV show “King of Miami” he keeps the audience hanging on his every carefully chosen word. Join us as we delve into the world of keeping it down low while..keeping the laughs…high? Man, these things are hard to write sometimes.

Plus! Ramen noodles! Merv Griffin! Dick Cavett! And everyone on this show was just nominated for the highly prestigous ECNY awards! Some of us in more than one catergory, but who’s counting? (I am. Very closely.) There’s a lot going on in this episode, you better get to it!

“The great red-head hawk shall be killed and eaten by the hideous big-chinned sloth, while in a far off kingdom the cantankerous otter shall laugh. Also, Kimmel’s show will be pretty funny for a week and a half.” – Nostradamus 1561

The future! No one knows what will happen in the future, but this week Dan, Dustin and guest Nick Turner give it a shot, as we try to guess what the future of comedy will be, and read some predictions from our listening audience. Are we right? Are we way off? If you are reading this in the year 2037 leave us a comment and let us know how we did. FROM THE FUTURE!!! (currently your present).

Photo from flickr by merrick_monroe

In this special late Friday night semi-drunkin’ episode we review the very last Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien ever.

Join us and guest Michael Hartney as we say good-bye to the red haired wonder that is CoCo.  Conan, you will be missed…until you return in September most likely.

OMG you guys! We’re coming at you at little early this week, because the great late night war has begun! Dan, Dustin and guest Nick Turner discuss the in and outs and comings and goings as we untangle  NBC’s talk show quagmire. Trust me you guys, this is a good one.

Plus! News From The Past reveals another upsetting fact about a beloved old comedian. And…well that’s about it, we talked about the Leno/Conan thing the whole time. And it got a little bit nuts.

On this week’s episode we welcome guest Dan Wilbur, a comic who also works for the comedy club Comix. We ask him about the behind the scenes business of comedy and he gives us the low down. They don’t call it show business for nothing. That’s right. They do it for something.

Plus…Diamond smuggling! Hitler’s ghost! And China finally has its long-awaited revenge on The Comedy Nerds.

Click Here to check more from Dan Wilbur or Click Here to check out more on Comix.

Feature photo from flickr by Khaz.  Dan Wilbur photo by Anya Garrett.

This week, with the announcement that NBC may be bringing back “Last Comic Standing”, we discuss whether or not you should have comedy competitions. And if you do, is there anyway to make them fair? Can something as subjective as comedy be quantified? Would just changing venues wildly affect the outcome? What are you waiting for? I’m going to give you the answers here, so you better go listen the episode.

Plus! Learn what terrified Dan over the holidays. Find out about Dustin’s Book of Knives. And news….FROM THE PAST!!!

Here at The Comedy Nerds compound, we’ve been snug in our beds, with vision of sugar plums dancing in various parts of our bodies, including, but not limited to, our heads. But have we got a show for you this week. We discuss the decade in stand up comedy. Learn Dustin’s ten comics that had the most impact in the last ten years. He’s pretty convincing. I’d write more, but I’m not going to lie to you, I got a warm cup of eggnog calling my name, so I’m going to leave it there and let you just listen and hear it for yourself.

Plus, find out the year we made contact (hint: It’s coming up real soon). Find out why Dustin can’t keep track of which facts he learned from unicorns. And have a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

On this week’s episode, we talk about the top comedy movies of the decade. Dan reads his list. Dustin gets mad. It’s just like last week, except it’s about movies. You remember movies, those big flickering pictures they would project on a screen in the places that are now used to simulcast Jonas Brothers concerts. So pop some popcorn, turn down the lights and get ready to stare at your iPod for the next fifty minutes, as we talk about the Talkies!

Plus, Dan discovers he is a bigger Jack Black fan than he realized. We take you back to a time when we were all really excited about Lindsey Lohan’s career. And jetpacks, jetpacks, jetpacks. Also? Jetpacks.

On this week’s episode we reveal our top ten TV shows of the decade. Well, Dan reveals his list and Dustin disagrees with it for the most part. Oh yes, there will be a-fussin’ and a-fightin’ my friend, but don’t worry, it’s all in the name of finding the best comedy shows of the aughts (the zero’s? the naughts? We got like three weeks left people we really have to settle on what we’re calling this decade.) Where do your favorite shows fall? What little seen critical darling will Dan make a snobby elitist case for?

Plus, how did the writers of “Undressed” keep coming up with new ways to keep their characters in their underwear? Learn about possibly the best note ever written. And don’t miss Dan’s mind-blowing assertion that perhaps the internet was an important element to this decade.

And a quick programming note: Dan mentioned that there was a Japanese version of the “The Office”. There isn’t. He was wrong about that. (Yes, he knows there was an SNL sketch, but he thought that was based on a real thing.) There is a number of different versions, including a French and German version, so his point still stands.

Happy Decade of Comedy everyone!

On this week’s episode, we welcome VH1 writer Kristen Swensson! From “Best Week Ever” to “Awesomely Bad Hair”, VH1 has pioneered the snarky talking-head clip show. These shows have not only provided hours of enjoyment for the home audience, but have also given up and coming comedians much needed exposure and opportunities to pay their rent. Kristen gives us the low down on how these shows come together. From listing the 100 best Hip Hop songs of all time, to coaxing embarrassing stories out of comedians, we cover it all.

Plus, we do the news. How would you feel if Derek Jeter murdered your parents? After he’s done with this being President gig, does Obama have a promising future making promos for TBS? And learn about Dan’s inability to tell if a man is handsome and how that makes Dustin so mad.

You can check out Kristen’s fun and funny food blog at cheaphealthygood.blogspot.com/

When you run a podcast/website called The Comedy Nerds it’s hard not be considered a comedy snob.  Yeah, so what?  So we watch comedy with our pinkies out wearing Polo sweaters and eating little sandwich triangles.

But it’s not all rainbows and judging Two & A Half Men.  Is there a cost to comedy snobbery?  How does it effect comedy watchers?  How does it effect comedians?  Is it better to just go along with least common denominator comedy?  Who doesn’t want to watch a sketch called Farty McGee Goes to College?

This week we go inside the writer’s room of network television with Marc Dworkin.  Former writer for Hope & Faith and Disney’s Aaron Stone Marc telsl us what it takes to get into writing Sitcom television.

How do 16 people write one story?  How do you go from PA to writer in just one short season.  What’s Kelly Ripa like?  More importantly what was a young Megan Fox like?  (yeah, we had no idea she was on Hope & Faith either)  Why is the Starbucks in Burbank the center of the entertainment universe?

There’s a lot in here so you better start listening now.

Oh romantic comedy.  You always try to trick me with comedy in your name but really you are a romantic story with some quirky shenanigans thrown in.  I’ve fallen for your deception too many times you beautiful sunsetty bastard.

This week we look at why there are so many romantic comedies and why they are so awful (most of the time).  Do they really have to be that awful?  Are too many movies considered romantic comedies?  Can you make one without Hugh Grant (or person of equal or greater British accent)?  Don’t worry, we will make you laugh but we won’t make you cry…much.

Once upon a time…no…There once was a man from Nantucket… no…. Storytelling is hard.  On this week’s episode we look at what it takes to tell a good comedy story.  What’s the difference between a good stand-up bit and storytelling?  What’s important to good story?  Is this the next evolution in comedy?

To help us figure it all out is host of the storytelling show Risk! and member of the historic sketch comedy group The State, Kevin Allison.  He shares his expertise as well as a bunch of hilarious behind the scenes stories of The State.  You should be sure to check out his podcast for Risk! on iTunes here and see the show when it returns in January to Joe’s Pub, until then check out the website here for details.

Corporations.  Huh.  What are they good for?  Other than making stuff absolutely nuthin’.  Like it or not, every major comedy source in this country is in one way or another beholden to a corporation of some kind.  They get to decide what makes it to air and what doesn’t.  Sponsors, network execs, basically anyone who can be considered “the man” gets to push their stupid noses into the comedy making process.

In this week’s episode we look at the effect of corporations on today’s comedy culture.  Has main stream success brought too many sponsors to shows like SNL and hurt the quality?  Can a show get more powerful than their corporations?  What the hell was Microsoft thinking when they considered sponsoring Seth MacFarlane’s live show?

Plus, we argue about the relevance of Monty Python as the celebrate their 40th anniversary.  (Wow, they are old!)

No matter how many times I try to explain it to my wife she just doesn’t understand.  They are snakes and they are on a plane.  They are snakes on a plane.  It’s a plane and there are snakes on it.  She says, “yeah I get it.  I just think it’s stupid.”  Ummmm…yeah.  It is stupid.  It’s so stupid that it’s awesome.  Sometimes the funniest things can be completely by accident.

This week we look at what makes unintentional funny things funny.  Can sitcoms do a very special episode without it being accidentally hilarious?  What’s the difference between unintentional humor and campy?  Who would actually sit down and write a movie about a house that eats unmarried women?  What are those crazy snakes doing on that plane anyway?

We welcome comedian Nate Kushner, co-host of the movie series Movies vs. Humans, (where they watch the worst movies of all time and comment on them) to help us figure it all out. 

This week’s episode is ripped from the headlines (of the Huffington Post via The Comic’s Comic).  We look at the top 7 comedy feuds as suggested by the Huffington post and give our takes on who won.  Leno vs. Letterman: Who’s more of a douche bag?  Arsenio vs Rosanne:  Who better represents the early 90′s and therefor wins because we really don’t care about them all that much any more?  David Cross vs Larry the Cable Guy: Can we believe anything a fake cable guy says?

Plus, last week Dustin went to see SNL live in studio 8H and he spills the beans of what it’s like seeing the famous sketch show live.  Find out what had him freaking out during the show and who the scariest lady on the crew is.

When it comes to comedy theaters there are few bigger that the Upright Citizens Brigade.  So many of today’s up and coming comedians have started on that stage and there are future stars beginning classes every day.

This week we talk to UCB regular and all around great guy Mike Still about what it’s like performing at the world famous theater. What does it take to get on a Harold team?  Does being selected for one mean you get to live in Lorne Micheal’s basement?  Why do some people think of it as the Evil Empire?

Plus, find out how a level one UCB improv class changed Dustin’s life forever.  If you’ve ever been curious what’s it like to perform for a major theater or are interested in getting involved with one take a listen.  Mike gives a lot of great inside information.   Click Here to see when you can catch Mike performing with one of his many groups.

In this week’s episode we look at censorship and why it f*cking blows.  We examine:  What really are the rules the frickin’ FCC uses for broadcast TV?  Is cursing really a big deal on television any more?  What can we do to free up the airways for saying sh*t and f*ck whenever we gosh darn want?  Why does Dan insist on calling this episode the “Spooktacular”?  (Warning: There really is no answer to the last one.  He’s just weird)

We welcome back Comedy Nerds favorite Michael Hartney to join in on the conversation.  Also, this episode is not related to anything that may or may not have happened on Saturday Night Live.  (okay it totally is, but be cool.)

Which is more important: quantity or quality?  Is it better for a comedian to perform all the frickin’ time and do whatever crap they wrote on the back of a napkin or only perform once a month but try really really hard at that shows?  Is a bad reputation better than no reputation at all?  Is a set with 80 mediocre jokes better than one with 4 great ones?  Surprisingly we actually think we figured this one out so take a listen and find out.

Plus, stick around for a few comments on the Emmy Awards and some of the new fall shows.  Also, help us figure out why one listener thinks we should “go somewhere and die.”

We pick up where we left off on Part 1 of the fall preview.  That’s really all there is to say about it.

The new fall TV season is upon us.  You want to know what to watch?  Then take a listen to our Fall Preview For Comedy Nerds.  We break down all the new and returning comedy shows into three categories:  watch it, tivo it, or watch c-span before you watch this piece of crap.

Seen any of the shows?  Let us know what you think.

It’s finally here.  Monday night The Jay Leno Show debuted and the Comedy Nerds were there to review/examine/critique it.  Was the new Jay as crazy sexy cool as we all hoped he would be?  Where the correspondents Daily Show quality awesome?  Did Jay really just ask Kanye what his dead mom would think of him?  Really?  Really?

So should you watch it or find other 10 pm fun?  We’ll try to help you decide.

photo from flickr by Sebastian Niedlich (Grabthar)

This week we talk two man comedy with the always hilarious Nate Fernald and Steve O’Brien of Team Submarine.  In case you don’t know Team Submarine is one of the best two man groups working today.

In this episode we look at:  Why don’t we see as many two man groups as we used to?  Why can it be harder to perform as a two man group in a stand-up show?  Why should more comedians consider pairing off?  Why is Dan always thinking about dry humping? I mean always thinking about it.  Seriously.  That’s what he’s doing right now.

And don’t miss a clip from the Team Submarine album Correctamundo!.  (which is available for purchase on their website.)

This week’s episode is brought to you by Mom Jeans, Bass-o-matic, Colon Blows and Old Glory Robot Insurance.  Oh commercial parodies, what can’t you convince me to fake buy? (Crystal Gravy!)

But are commercial parodies comedy cheating?  After all, isn’t it mostly take an item, make something weird about it, and then you’re done.  Or are commercial parodies one of the most sure fire and entertaining forms of sketch comedy?  Take a listen, then tell us what do you think.

After over a year of Friday podcasts we are making the movie to Monday.  So now you can start your week off with the Comedy Nerds instead of listening Friday night when you are out drunk at the bar with friends which is how we assume everyone listens to it.  Although…it is probably funnier when you are drunk.  Well, I guess you are going to have to start drinking Monday mornings.  It’s not like you didn’t want to already.  Now we give you an excuse.  See the Comedy Nerds are always doin’ stuff for you!

This week, we’re making it up as we go along.

We’re joined by guest Jason Saenz, to discuss the process of using improv to generate ideas for sketch and stand up. How much adaption is needed to go from one medium to another? And does just doing improv improve your writing in general?

We’ll also discuss whether improv can be considered an art form. Dustin argues against it, because he likes getting irate emails from improv fans.

This week welcome New York comedian and fellow podcaster Chris Grace to the Comedy Nerds studios to talk podcasting.  Why do people podcast?  Why is it important to comedy?  Why is Dustin always so mean to the guests?

Then we look at the oft forgotten Asian comedy minority.  Why are there so few Asian people in comedy?  How does the culture effect the need to perform?  Why is Dustin always so mean to the guests?

Check out Chris Grace’s website and podcast here.

Photo from flickr by thewmatt

This week we reach into the mail bag to help out an enterprising young comedian looking to do sketch comedy at his new college.  We look at what goes into forming your own sketch team and how to avoid many of the common pitfalls.

What do you do if you are a stranger in a strange land looking for a sketch team?  How do you find new people?  What should you look for when casting?  And why it’s actually a good thing if you lose 80% of the people you cast after one year. Plus, don’t miss the story of how it was actually forming a sketch comedy team that brought the Comedy Nerds together.

You will wan to stick around to the end to hear details about our upcoming show August 14th at COCO66 in Greenpoint.  We’ve got a bunch of our favorite guests and if it’s anything like the last one (and it will be) a great time will be had by all.

Writer’s block is like an evil monster always waiting to attack and ruin the creative process.  I’ve seen it.  It’s got these big teeth and gross green skin that is always covered in ooze.  And it’s always saying, “That Idea is stupid.  Those words are stupid.  You are stupid.  You should have gone to grad school and become a teacher instead.  You should really take out the garbage, it’s beginning to smell a little funky in here.”  I hate that stupid monster.  This week we discuss overcoming writer’s block and once it is overcome who it is fair game for a comedian to discuss in their act.

Finally, the patience of the faithful has been rewarded. The State has finally been released on DVD. The Nerds welcome Dan’s long time friend and fellow State fanatic Michael Gesele as they discuss the long-awaited release, whether the show is as good as the remember and how much nostalgia can affect how much you enjoy what you are watching.

And listen to the end for your chance to get a special Comedy Nerds discount to see The Daily Show’s John Oliver at Comix in NYC for this weekend (July 24-26th).

photo from flickr by Andrew St. Clair

Michael and Michael Have Issues debuted this week and we couldn’t have been more excited.  On this week’s podcast we talk about our impressions after the first episode.  Was it funny?  How meta was it?  How does an intern write a story, get it to his college newspaper’s editor, get it printed and pick it up all in less than 12 hours?

Plus, we look at the 2009 Emmy Nominations in all the comedy categories.  Does Family Guy deserve to be in the best comedy category?  Just how many nominations did 30 Rock get?  How did How I Met Your Mother not get a nomination for their awesome microsites?

Also, check out an great song by our friend Meaghan Farrell.

Photos by Anya Garrett

In comedy, creating a good character is hard.  This week’s guest, Livia Scott, is creating 365 good characters in 365 days.  That’s 1 a day.  See, we told you we could do math.  (We’re learning about imaginary numbers next week.  Dustin doesn’t believe they exist.  Dan thinks he might be right)

We discuss:  How can you come up with a solid character?  What comedy group does the most impressive characters? How to create characters that are a different sex, race, ethnicity or hair color than you? (spoiler: redhead is the hardest to do)  Afterward check out Livia’s characters so far on her YouTube page and become her fan/friend on facebook.

And don’t miss another hilarious clip from our buddy Lou Fernandez over at LouReads.com.

Photos done by Anya Garrett

This week we talk with one of the kings of the comedy blogging world, Sean McCarthy.  For any true comedy nerd his blog,  The Comic’s Comic is a must read.

We sit him down to discuss: The importance of a proper comedy blog.  How to interview a suspected joke thief.  How Sean is just like Perez Hilton and much much more.

Plus,  don’t miss a hilarious sketch by the guys in Team Submarine.

Photo from flickr by CHARLES VAN DEN BROEK

There is just something about the number three.  This week we watched the rule of threes play out in it’s saddest variation with the death of Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson.  While there is nothing at all funny about that when things happen in threes in comedy it’s usually a good thing.  For some reason three is the perfect number for laughs.

This week we look at the rule of threes and a bunch of other comedy rules and why they exist. Is more of a good thing always good in comedy?  Are things always funnier when you repeat them?  Are things always funnier when you repeat them?  Are things always funnier when you repeat them?  Are things always funnier when you repeat them? Are things always funnier when you repeat them?  How long before it gets annoying?

Fresh outta Sketchfest NYC we got to thinkin’ about how important sketch comedy is.  It makes us laugh.  It makes us think.  It makes us…maybe, love.  (Hey, you never know)  Okay, so it’s not like the most important thing but it’s fun.  So this week we decide which of the life changing, orphan saving, polio curing sketch comedy shows out there is the most important.  What sketch show could we simply not live without? Take a listen and then tell us what you think.

It’s been an amazing 3 days. We’ve spoke to a bunch of hilarious groups. Check out our final day at Sketchfest NYC. It all culminates with an interview of Kevin McDonald from The Kids In The Hall. Yeah, you read that right. Kevin McDonald. Thanks to everyone involved in Sketchfest and everyone who spoke to us. We had a blast. Hopefully you had a blast listening to it.

It was another day of great groups and great guests. This time we even have international guests. Okay, so by international we mean Canada, but they are sort of another country I think. Check out day 2 of our Sketchfest NYC adventure.

Day 1 of sketchfest was awesome. We got to speak to almost everyone who performed and now we can pass the savings on to you (by savings we mean podcast). Take a listen. You’ll never hear so many sketch groups all in one place again. Until tomorrow when we release day 2 of sketchfest. And head on over to the Sketchfest website for a full recap of the day and preview of day 2.

This week we’re hitting up two topics on the podcast.  That’s right, I said two topics.  First a special Conan podcast and now a two topic episode.  It’s been a hell of a week over the Comedy Nerds Camp (Yes, we have a camp.  I’m making Smores right now.)  We welcome back Nick Turner to talk about having nothin’ but comedy friends and why comedy movies with a lot of money usually suck.  Come join us, won’t you.

Check out our special Tuesday Podcast reviewing and discussing Conan’s first night as host of The Tonight Show.  What’s different from Jay’s version?  How was the return of Andy? (you already know it was awesome)  Did he have to totally sell out for all those 11:30 folks who are afraid to watch a bear masturbate? (It’s nature people.  Get over it.)

Comedy Nerds regular Michael Hartney joins us for our late night discussion.  Let us know what you thought and we’ll talk about it on our next podcast.  Email us at info(at)thecomedynerds(dot)com.

photo from flickr by niclindh

Listen.  Hey Listen.  You over there!  You should be reading this faster.  I just gave you feedback on how you should be reading.  How did I know you were reading slow?  I’m a f’n magician of websiteitry that’s how.  But some feedback isn’t as useful as mine is (sorry rest of the universe).

On this week’s podcast we look at comedy feedback.  When should you listen to feedback?  When should you tell people to shove it up their butt holes?  How can you be more constructive with your feedback?

Musical goddess Shayna Ferm stops by to help us sort it out and celebrate our 52nd episode.  That makes us one years old.  Stick around to the end of the podcast to check out a special surprise by Shayna and stick around to the middle to hear her song ‘Walk of Shame” and after check out the video (starring the always hilarious Katherine “Chuck” Bryant Flaherty).

So many thanks to Shayna Ferm and also to Andres Subercaseaux for reasons that will make sense after you listen to the episode.  Also, because Shayna asked me to, this is Emo Philips’ site.  Also many thanks to you listeners for listening to the podcast.  And since we did a whole episode on feedback we would love to hear from you guys about what you’ve liked over the first year.  What would you like to see more of?  Which one of us do you think is cuter?  (spoiler alert: It’s Dustin)

photo from flickr by xtrarant

Most hardcore comedians and comedy lovers talk about the importance of truth in comedy.  Heck, they even wrote a book about it (called Truth In Comedy.  It’s pretty famous.  You should read it).

In this week’s podcast we look at: What does truth in comedy really mean?   Why is it important?  Does everything really need to be true to be considered…true?

We welcome stand-up comedian Jesse Popp to join in on the discussion and share with us his own brand of truth.

Check out our special Monday podcast.  We discuss Dane Cook’s new Comedy Cenrtal special called Isolated Incident.  Yeah,  that’s right we’re topical mofo’s.

Was it everything it was promised it would be?  Did he do anything to silence the haters?  Why did the bleep out the words “dot com”?  We welcome stand-up and sketch comedian Nick Turner to join in on all the debates.

photo from flickr by Mark McLaughlin

Everyone loves a comedian, but does a comedian need to be lovable?  This week we debate if comedy characters need to be good people in order to make us laugh. likable

Can a comedy character ever be truly evil?  Are shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm and Arrested Development changing the the rules of comedy or just following in the footsteps of shows from the past?  Why does Dan find Hitler so darn funny?  (don’t worry, he still hates him for all the awful things he did.  But he is kind of silly.  You have to admit.)  We welcome always lovable stand up comedian and film maker Barry Rothbart as our guest.  You can check him out at therealbarry.com.

photo from flickr by xiaming

No, we’re not talking about Michael Scott and his team.  We’re talking about that jack-ass at the office who is still…still doing a Borat impression or the person who still kills in the conference room repeating lines from last night’s Family Guy. This week we ask:

What is the difference between jokes that work in the office and at the comedy club?  Will comedians always lose to people getting hit in the nuts on YouTube?  Will Dan ever get over not being selected Class Clown in college?  (Spoiler Alert: No!)

We welccome back awesome stand-up comedian Claudia Cogan and Comedy Nerds regular Michael Hartney to join in on the discussion.

This week we welcome improv teacher and performer Rachel Oakes to talk about teaching improv to old folks and teens.

Do old people only do scenes about the war?  What type of teen actually chooses to do improv?  Will Dustin be as big of a jerk to this improv teacher as we was to the last one?  (Note from Dustin:  I wasn’t being a jerk.  I was just trying to play devil’s advocate.  Sometimes that comes across a little harsh, but there is nothing but love there.)  Plus, another excerpt from Lou Fernandez at Loureads.com.  And if you are in L.A. this weekend check out Dan at the L.A. Comedy Festival.

photo from flickr by Roman Barelko

This week we welcome comedians Claudia Cogan and Michael Hartney to talk about the world of gay comedy.  What unique struggles do gay comedians face?  How does being a gay comedian effect the material they create?   How afraid can Dan and Dustin be about sounding ignorant or homophobic?  Come find out with us.

You can check out more from Claudia at UnderTheGaydarComedy.com or at her blog. You can find Michael Hartney at SecretHospital.com as always.

Photo from flickr by mDaily

This week we look at the necessary evil many comedians have to face, doing commercials.  For many aspiring comedians commercials provide the best way to earn money while honing their very poorly paying craft.  We welcome comedian and actress Rachel Korowitz to discuss comedians in commercials.

We look at: How do you get into commericials?  How do you rock an audition and actually get cast?  Is there a dark side to doing commericials? (yes)  What made Rachel actually like being locked in a glass room in 103 degree weather with wild dogs roaming around her?  Come find out with us…

photo from flickr by icopythat

This week we welcome Chris Rock and Jerry Seinfeld to discuss our new TV show that they are co-executive producing with us.  Gotcha!  It was a prank.  Did I trick you?  You know I did.  It was so believable.  I am a pro!  (Although in retrospect naming this post and podcast Pranks Shows might have given it away.  Stupid titles.)

We’ll take a look at Prank Shows throughout history.  We look at the importance of groups like Improv Everywhere vs movies like Borat or shows like Punk’d.  Why are they funny?  Why do some people hate them soooo much?  What would we do if attacked by a werewolf?  Enjoy!

Photo from flickr by pfau

Comedy makes me happy.  But anger is what gives me comedy.  So much of the humor we see on a daily basis is angry.  It’s aggressive.  It’s so often about getting a laugh at the expense of some one, some thing or yourself.  (cough) Richard Lewis (cough).

Some might say it’s about tearing down others so you feel better about yourself.  Screw those people.  They are just mad because someone said something funny about them.  Yeah, I said it Poindexter.  Man up!  Actually, in some ways I agree with that, but it was much more fun to say I was angry about it and thus prove my point.  Yep, that’s called a call back.  Jealous?  I thought so.

So this week we look at why anger is so closely tied to comedy.  Can they be seperated?  Is it possible to take that anger too far?  Does John Tesh have the best radio show of all time?  We welcome comedian and writer for drinkatwork.com Sean Crespo to discuss with us.  Plus, we also welcome back sketch comedian Michael Hartney to join in on the discussion.  His group Secret Hospital just got into LA’s Sketchfest, so if you are in the area in May check them out.

photo from flickr by shutupyourface

A few weeks back comedian Matt Ruby had a great post on his blog Sandpaper Suit about all the things necessary to put on a quality comedy show.  We loved it and invited him on to talk about the do’s and don’t of producing a comedy show.  We discuss the importance of sound, lights, hosting and much much more.  If you are thinking of producing your own show or have ever wondered what goes into it you’ll want to take a listen.

Stand-up comedian and producer of the indy comedy show “Too Cool For School” Nick Turner joins us as well.  And if you are free tonight, check out the show Matt produces “We’re All Friends Here” at The Creek in Long Island City at 10pm and Nick’s show at COCO66 in Greenpoint, Brooklyn starting at 8pm.

photo from flickr by gtmcknight

Penis.  Fart.  Vagina.  Did you giggle?  Yes you did because those words are funny.  They are crass and silly and they hit you in your inner 13 year old every time.  No one is immune to it.  There is just something about crass comedy that we gets us all.  But can someone just say “poop” and be guaranteed a laugh?  Are there rules to when crass comedy works?  Can it really be overused?  Who does it well?  What should you do if you like to dress up as an adult baby and you want to tell the person you are dating about it?

We welcome NYC’s king of crass comedy Lou Fernandez to the show to help us answer these questions.  You can check out his blog and his podcast at these sites:  kinglou.com or http://tindeck.com/users/King+Lou and he is guest blogging here http://geekpadshow.com.

By the by, this episode is very very very very NSFW.

Ever successful comedian has a “character” they play on stage.   Some are similar to their own.  Others are entirely contrived.  But you know when you see Steven Wright you know who you are going to get  a one liner comedian who is a little spaced out and when you see Lewis Black you know you are going to see an angry man yelling at how stupid the world is.  They are solid, specific and well defined characters.

So this week we look at comedy character. Why is it essential for a comedian to have a character?  What restrictions does it put on them?  Can a comedian overcome a bad character.  We welcome back comedian Mike Blejer to discuss.

Photo from flickr by blazefyter

Most people can wrap their heads around how one goes about teaching acting or writing, but improv?  This week we welcome Sarah Nowak, improv teacher at New York City’s famous Peoples Improv Theater, to discuss how one teaches others to make things up in the best and funniest possible ways.

We ask: Can you teach anyone to be good at improv?  How do you teach someone to be funny by teaching them to not try to be funny?  When is the right time for a new improviser to take to the stage for the first time?  Is Sarah ever going to talk to Dustin again after this episode is over?

Come find out with us…

You can check out Sarah performing with her group The Baldwins every Wednesday at 9pm  at The P.I.T.

(NOTE FROM DUSTIN: I’m told by our focus group of my wife that I may have come across as kind of a douche in this episode.  If so, I am sorry.  I will try to restrict my douche like behaviour to times when I am not recording)

It has been proven time and time again.   The Academy HATES comedy.  Apparently laughing makes them angry.  If you are a comedian you might as well save the money on the tux and stay home.

This week we look at why comedy never get any love from Oscar.  Why do comedians even seem reluctant to give comedy awards?  Should there be a governing body of comedy that gives out awards? (we suggested The Comies because that would really piss off the squares.  We still hate communism, right?  And still call serious people squares?  Side note:  We later discovered that is what Comedy Central called their comedy awards, but obviously it didn’t work very well since we never heard of it.)

And stick around to the end when we say our good-byes to Late Night With Conan O’Brien and make our predictions on what the new show will be like.

(thanks to Pete from Chicago for the topic suggestion)

photo from flickr by dtepley

The price of any product eventually comes down to supply and demand.  This is also true for comedy.  A large supply of comedians is constantly fighting to fill the very limited demand for comics to perform.  Therefor comedians usually earn very little money and to have to fight tooth and nail for any job they can get.  But unlike your traditional supply and demand situation, the products in this case are all human beings and they end up hanging out together pretty much all the time.

This week we look at how the struggle to become a successful performer effects the relationships of comedians with other comedians.  How do they deal with competing for the same job?  Do they all secretly hate each other? Is a level of competition a good  thing?  We welcome back comedian and satellite radio personality Ken Zimlinghaus to help us figure it all out.

photo from flickr by: .countz

Every comedian will tell you that one of the biggest keys to success is commitment.  A good comedian needs commitment to the craft and commitment to the jokes.  But what exactly is commitment?  Why do people lose it?  Do some people rely too heavily on it? (I’m looking at you Dane Cook) Can some comedians get away without it?  Does commitment to material, even if it is bad, make you a good comedian?

We welcome recent NYC transplant from DC, Mike Blejer (of as I like to call him “The Professor) to discuss.  If you want to hear more from Mike you can check him out on his website.

photo from flickr by noopzilla

It’s one thing to be funny for 10 minutes or 45 minutes, but it’s a whole other thing to be funny for 4 hours a day 5 days a week.  This week we welcome comedian and Sirius and XM Satellite radio personality Ken Zimlinghaus to talk about the special challenges facing comedians on the radio.

How do they come up with new and interesting material every day?  Is it really possible to “be funny” for that many hours?  Do they ever want to full on punch their co-hosts?  Why are radio fans so damn crazy?

And stay tuned until the end of the podcast for an original song by Kenny.

Last week we looked at where you get your sense of humor from (spoiler alert: it was the baby Jesus).  Now you know where your funny comes from but what do you do with it?  How do you turn it into actual humor that won’t make others want to pull out thier own eyes?  What are the best methods of coming up with new jokes?  Where should you look to find inspiration in coming up with the funny?  Come find out with us…

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picture from flickr by: Mikey aka DaSkinnyBlackMan in Iraq

You know where you got your height from.  Your hair color.  That weird lookin’ nose that you really want to get “taken care of” but for right now are saying gives your face character.  But where did you get your sense of humor from.

In this weeks episode we look at what causes you to laugh at what you laugh at (don’t worry, there is no scientific data at all).  Is comedy inborn?  If your dad loves corny jokes and thinks the singing fish is hilarious, is there any hope for you?  Did your high school friends being total jerks force you to be funny when you needed to?  If you don’t have the funny gene is there anything you can do about it?  Come find out with us.

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Photo from flickr by Larry Johnson

Tragedies suck by definition.  Firstly, something bad happened so everyone is crying and running around in torn clothes with dirt on their face and such.  Secondly, you have to wait to make fun of whatever it is so people don’t think you are a dick. (which, let’s face it, you are)

This week we look at just how long you have to hold off before you get to laugh at misery.  Are people trying too hard to be “hip” by making fun of things like 9/11 right away?  Who gets to legitimately be offended when you make fun of a tragedy?  What is Dustin’s Law and why do you NEED to know it?

Come find out with us…

photo from flickr by Nikki L.

Nothing adds to a good joke like a soundtrack.  This week we look at music’s place in the the comedy world.    Why is everything funnier to a tune? Is singing about poop cheating?  Why is Weird Al a genius?  Why should you run screaming from the room if Dustin starts singing “Somewhere Out There” from An American Tale?

Comedic songstress Shayna Ferm stops by the studio to tell us her take and share a few inspiring and embarrassing stories about being a rocker.  She recently released her debut album Blonde with her band Shayna Ferm And The Upper Deckers.  You can get it on her site Shaynaferm.com or on CD baby.  Stick around to the end to hear a single off the album.  You’ll be glad you did.

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_31_-_Music_And_Comedy.mp3[/podcast]

As a comedy nerd there is nothing worse than hearing a hacky comedian.  But how do you define hacky?  Much like porn, it’s hard to define, but you know it when you see it.

This week we break down what hack comedy is.  We also talk about cheap jokes.  We all laugh at them.  So what’s the problem?  Take a listen and find out.

P.S. We’ll be taking the next two weeks off from the podcast to celebrate the holidays, but we’ll still be updating the site with other content.  Happy Holidays!

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_30_-_Hacks_and_Cheap_Laughs.mp3[/podcast]

Can somebody please send so flowers to Conan O’Brien?  He was sooooo close.  Just when is seemed like Jay was going to hand off The Tonight Show and walk off into the sunset comes the news that he will starting up a whole new show 5 nights a week and in prime time.  While it won’t technically be the The Tonight Show, it will be The Tonight Show just and an hour and half earlier.

So what does this mean for all the late night shows?  Could this be the start of something big for comedy?  Why is Jay Leno always in the middle of controversy?  Will anyone watch 43 consecutive hours of late night talk shows?

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_29_-_Not_So_Late_Night_Controversy.mp3[/podcast]

Comedy Central has long been under the mainstream radar. It was the only place that those in comedy  know could go to find out where the cutting edge of comedy was.  The shows were considered alternative comedy and geared to a young urban audience.  But lately the shows have become more mainstream and geared to broader audience.  What does that mean for all those die hard Comedy Central Fans?  Is the Blue Collar Comedy Invastion helping not only itself, but all types of comedy.  Come find out with us.

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_28_-_Is_Comedy_Central_Becoming_Mainstream.mp3[/podcast]

This week we look at how appearance effects the way audiences respond to a comedian. Can a comic be both hot and funny or do audiences say to themselves, “Look, you’ve already got the hot thing.  Don’t push it!” Does a comedian’s appearance dictate what type of comedy they can do and if so, is it possible to overcome it?  Or must an attractive comedian deal with “the burden of hotness” (my guitar is gently weeping for them)?

We welcome stand-up comedian and Williamsburg Spelling Bee host Jen Dziura as our guest this week.  She’s a quick and funny lady who can spell any word you’ve ever heard.

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_26_-_Being_Hot_and_Funny.mp3[/podcast]

This week we look at how age effects your sense of humor.  Do you get more picky or less picky about your comedy as you get older?  Do you just prefer what you liked when you were younger? As comedy gets more out there, where will it eventually go to.

We welcome back guest Jeff Scherer to discuss it with us.  Again he is very smart.  And to be honest, he’s a little older then we are.  Not Old Man Scherer old though.  Like a respectable little bit older.  Younger people can trust him is my point.  But admittedly he offer us hard candy and asked us to shave his ear hair.

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_25_-_Does_Age_Effect_Your_Sense_of_Humor.mp3[/podcast]

Photo courtesy of Flickr from RobertFrancis

Barack Obama won!  We are still in shock and now the comedy world is freaking out because, well frankly, he’s just not nearly as funny as Bush.  What is going to happen now?  And is this all Tina Fey’s fault?  Did her Sarah Palin take down the Republicans?  Is Steven Colbert totally screwed?

This week we welcome improv and sketch comedian Jeff Scherer to help us figure it out.  He’s super smart so watch out!

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_24_-_Politics_Comedy_and_Change.mp3[/podcast]

photo courtesy of Tracy Russo

This week we look at the effects of major success on a comedian.  Does becoming a success make it more difficult to write for the common man? How does a huge comic like Chris Rock determine what material works and what doesn’t when audiences like whatever they do.

Most importantly, does success mean that it’s all down hill from here.  We look at Chris Rock, Louis CK, Robin Williams, Dane Cook and many more.

Comedian Nick Turner joins us once again for the show.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_23_-_Money_Changes_Everything.mp3[/podcast]

This week we welcome Stand-Up Comedian Nick Turner to talk about comedy in the nation’s capital and he shares stories of his tour with a controversial comedy play and much more.  Is comedy different as you move from major city to major city?  Do audiences treat comics differently?  Come find out with us.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_22_-_Comedy_From_The_Capital.mp3[/podcast]

Just about every comedy movie worth seeing lately has Judd Apatow’s named attached to it. It seems like the Apatow crew can do whatever they want and people will go see it. This week we look at the rise of Apatow, if a backlash is coming and some of the other comedy families we’ve had through history.

Also, we look at the effects of one group producing so much of today’s comedy. What effect has it had on audiences and on other movie makers? Has it finally run it’s course? Our first guest Michael Hartney returns to join in on the conversation.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_21_-_Movies_In_The_Age_Of_Apatow.mp3[/podcast]

Saturday Night Live is a comedy institution. It has given us many of today’s most successful comedians. This week we welcome SNL comedy nerd Michael Hartney to the show to discuss who would make up the best cast of all time.

If you could only pick 7 previous or current SNL cast members, who would they be? Who are the must haves? The great but not great enoughs. Join us as we choose who we would pick to make up the best comedy troupe of all time.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_20_-_SNL_Dream_Team.mp3[/podcast]

Sometimes when things go bad for a comic it is actually good because now they have material. This week we look at that. Do comedians actually hope that when things go bad they get worse? Does it make a bad situation better knowing that they can perform it on stage? Would you trade a bad and life and being a successful comedian for having a happy life and being a regular Joe? Please, join us.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_19_-_Wanting_It_To_Get_Worse.mp3[/podcast]

Every year we hear about the death of the sitcom and yet like that old racist grandparent who’s supposedly leaving you money, it just won’t die. This week we look at why everyone keeps saying that and if it’s true.

We also look at what makes for a good sitcom. Which sitcoms will stand the test of time? Are today’s sitcoms living up to the standards of the past or surpassing them? Why has the sitcom survived as long as has and is it truly immortal?

Please come join us.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_18_-_Will_The_Sitcom_Ever_Die.mp3[/podcast]

Perhaps the most overused phase in comedy today is “alternative comedy”. Most comedians, big and small define themselves as alternative comedians.  But with all these alternative comedians you can’t help but ask, alternative to what?

This week we try to define alternative comedy.  Are comedians really overusing it?  Is today’s alternative comedy tomorrow’s mainstream comedy?  Are people using the term just to justify why there are not more successful?

(also that girl in the picture is totally not an alternative comedian, I think she’s a VJ for MTV in Sweden or something, but she’s very alternative so that’s why we used her.  Why didn’t we choose an actual alternative comedian to put there?  Because there wasn’t a good free one on flickr.  We are trying to be all legal.  Plus it’s a cool picture.  Deal with it.)

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_17_-_Alternative_Comedy.mp3[/podcast]

Photo from flickr by: marimoon

Lately, it seems like you can’t find comedy in this country without a mention of politics. It’s on everyone’s mind and in every late night monolgue.

So with politics playing such a big part of shows like The Tonight Show, The Daily Show, The Colbert Report and Saturday Night Live is all this discussion having an effect on what is going on in the world?  Does a solid Weekend Update joke change anyone’s vote in November?  Can we laugh our way into a better country?  Man, we really hope so.  (that’s the biblical man, meaning mankind and not man meaning a dude.)

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episod_16_-_Politics_and_Comedy.mp3[/podcast]

Photo from flickr by: sushi the great

Hey, the leaves are theoretically changing color.  The weather is theoretically getting colder.  That must mean it is theoretically fall.  And you all know what that theoretically means.  It means that it is time for the Comedy Nerds Super-Sized Fall Preview.

We take a look at many of the new and returning shows and give our predictions on what programs we think are going to work and what will die a miserable death.

We don’t want to give it away, but we don’t think Kath and Kim is going to make it.  I know, it’s a bold call but we are bold people.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_15_Fall_Comedy_Preview.mp3[/podcast]

Photo from flickr by: c.a.muller

Have you ever seen a comic perform live and thought they were great then saw them on TV and felt like you were watching a completely different performer. There are just some people and some things that only work live.

This week we look at what may be the cause of that. What works for a drunk audience at comedy club but dies a miserable death when you’re sitting home watching it on your tv or youtube or hulu or whatever. You’re probably watching it on your iphone aren’t you. You elitist with your iphone. You think you’re so cool. Watching comedy on your fancy phone with your fancy shoes. (Really I am just jealous. Can I touch your iphone. I’ll give it back. No I won’t. Get it away from me. What does this have to do with this week’s podcast? Nothing. I just really want an iphone.)

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_14_-_Live_versus_Taped.mp3[/podcast]

This week we look at the joke.  We examine some of the worlds oldest jokes in the world and try to figure out if they relate in any way to today.

We also look at if it’s possible that the joke in it’s “two dogs walk into a bar” style is in fact dead.  Why everyone seems to think that comedians tell those types of jokes even though everyone knows that they don’t.  Also why does everyone in the past enjoy jokes about donkeys.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_13_-_Is_The_Joke_Dead.mp3[/podcast]

photo from flickr by: slurv

Being a comedian is hard.  Really hard.  What makes it even harder is that lately just being a good comic isn’t enough.  Now comedians have to be be good at more than just getting up on stage and making people laugh.

This week we look at the effects of this on the comedy world.  Are comics expected to do too much?  Is it watering down the overall product?   Is it still possible to do only one thing and still succeed?
[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_12_-_Can_A_Comedian_Just_Do_Comedy.mp3[/podcast]

Photo from flickr by Kaptain Kobold

Thanks to the government run BBC british comedy plays by totally different rules then in the United States.  They have much more of a chance to be experimental and to be more niche.

This week we look at how the US differs from the other side of the pond.  Is there is such a thing as universal comedy or is humor based on your culture?  Why does US comedy seem to work in other cultures but thier comedy does not work here.  Come join us.

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_11_-_British_Comedy.mp3[/podcast]

Photo from Flickr courtesy of Clarissa~

Sometimes…no matter what a performer does…no matter how hard he or she tries..a show goes bad…REALLY BAD.

In this episode we look at why some shows are good one week and horrible the next and what you can do as a performer and an audience member when you find yourself part of one of these awful nights.

It’s going to happen sooner or later so you better get prepared now while you still can.

(and the you in the “You Suck” in the picture is referring to the audiences view of the performer during a show that is going bad, not you the reader/listener. We love you. But in a good healthy friend kind of love, not some crazy stalker kind of way.  Whatever else you may have heard is a lie.  Also, on an unrelated note, can we have some of your hair.  No, we’re not trying to clone you.  We think you’re getting a little paranoid.)

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_10_-_When_A_Good_Show_Goes_Bad.mp3[/podcast]

Whether it be a tortured childhood, a dysfunctional parent or something else it seems like every comedian has something.  This week we look at the trend of comedians having overcome personal obstacles in their past.

Does tragedy make for better comedy?  Are they trying to prove something?  Is insecurity a necessary part of any comedian?  Can someone still be funny if their life has all been unicorns and rainbows?

[podcast]http://www.thecomedynerds.com/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_9_-_Must_Comedians_Have_A_Deep_Dark_Secret.mp3[/podcast]

This week the nerds look back to where it all started and how comedy has effected them during their lives.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_8_-_This_Time_its_Personal.mp3[/podcast]

This week we look at the effects of websites like YouTube.com and FunnyOrDie.com on comedy. Who is it it helping? Who is it hurting? Is it really getting people famous? Can these types of sites last in the long term? Come find out with us.[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_6_-_The_Rise_Of_YouTube.mp3[/podcast]

We are going out of order here because of the sad news of the passing of George Carlin. We look at his impact on comedy and how it effects each of us today. He truly was a legend and a revolutionary in the comedy world. And don’t worry, we’ll go back to our regularly scheduled programming next week.[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_7_-_George_Carlin_Tribute.mp3[/podcast]

Word play or farts? Political observation or Balls? This week we take a look at the true nature of comedy. Has it become more or less sophisticated? Why does Two And A Half Men rule TV and Arrested Development have to fight to exist? Let’s find out…together.[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_5_Should_Comedy_be_Smarter.mp3[/podcast]

We continue our journey into the world of Del Close. Come, enjoy the the ride with us.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_4_Del_Close-Part_2.mp3[/podcast]

Episode 3 – We take a closer look at the man, the myth, the legend, Del Close. This is Part 1 of two so don’t be all like, “they just ended, what’s with that?” because part two is coming.[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_3-Del_Close-Part_1.mp3[/podcast]

In this episode we look at hecklers and the world of improv.

[podcast]http://www.dustindaddato.com/thecomedynerds/wp-content/podcasts/Episode_1_-_Getting_To_Know_You.mp3[/podcast]Episode 1 – Wherein you get to know the comedy nerds.  What the podcast will be and where it is going.