This week on the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with comedian James Townsend for a wide-ranging chat about life on the stand-up circuit.

From his first steps on stage to finding his voice through storytelling, James reflects on how his comedic style has grown with him. The pair dive into the realities of the open mic scene, the craft of joke writing, and the challenge of staying authentic while making strangers laugh.

They also explore the community behind the comedy—what it’s like running a night, supporting fellow acts, and the bigger picture of where this journey might lead. Whether you’re a new comic, a seasoned pro, or just comedy-curious, this episode is a thoughtful, funny look into what keeps performers coming back to the mic.

LINKS:

Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod

James Townsend: https://www.instagram.com/jamestownsendcomedy

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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Voice over courtesy of Reb Day: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/rebstagram

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with comedian Sam Love for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation about life on the comedy circuit. Sam shares his journey into stand-up, from the thrill of his earliest gigs to the tough lessons learned from bombing on stage. The pair dig into the craft of joke writing, the challenge of finding your comedic voice, and the shared highs and lows that come with performing for live audiences.

They also explore the realities of the open mic scene, including bringers, pay-to-play model, the pressures faced by promoters, and the ongoing push for more diversity in comedy. Sam opens up about his creative process, his podcast The Chapstick Boys, and his experience performing at the Edinburgh Fringe and preparation for the next one. There’s even time for a bit of fun, as he takes on the challenge of telling a joke from a book of notoriously bad gags.

Throughout the episode, Sam reflects on the importance of authenticity, the role of blogging in comedy, and his ambitions for the future. It’s a candid, funny, and thoughtful look at what it really means to build a career in stand-up comedy.

LINKS:

Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod

Sam Love: https://www.instagram.com/samuellove1992

Chapstick Boys Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2VRtM7salNCcZBjPk1IM5q?si=6f7419b0b3424455

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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Voice Over Segment: John Pape - https://www.johnpape.co.uk/

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with comedian Nick Holloway for a deep dive into the highs, lows, and laughs of stand-up. Nick opens up about his unexpected entry into comedy, the challenge of writing that first set, and the unpredictable nature of live performances — including the infamous gong show format. The conversation explores the art of joke writing, crafting material from real-life experiences, and the importance of punchlines and timing. Nick reflects on the supportive comedy circuit, ambitions for longer sets, and the importance of authenticity on stage. From audience reactions to choosing entrance music, this episode offers a candid and entertaining look at the comedian’s journey — one filled with spontaneity, growth, and unexpected moments.

🎧 Listen now on all podcast platforms!

LINKS:

Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod
Nick Holloway:

https://www.instagram.com/hollowaylaughs

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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Voice over courtesy of Reb Day: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/rebstagram