Industry Standard w/ Barry Katz
by Barry Katz
A one-of-a-kind insiders look at Hollywood from a totally different perspective. This inspirational weekly series provides an “all access pass” to the entertainment business through the eyes of comedy manager/producer Barry Katz and the industry's biggest "behind the scenes" players who candidly reveal the risky decisions they made that led to the most groundbreaking internet, television, radio, music, and film content in the world. Combining humor, insight, and motivation; Katz provides the blueprint for the audience to take their careers to the next tier, while showcasing each guests’ extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to the highest levels in their field.
Episodes
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Ask Me Anything #23: Can Comedy Be Taught? Industry Advice & The Future of Entertainment
Question #1: Do you feel fulfilled in the current stage of your career? Are there any goals you have for yourself in the next 5 or 10 years? Question #2: When you receive a cold email from an unknown person who wants to attach one of your clients to a project, what's the minimum that gets their…
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Anjelah Johnson: What If One Thing Could Fast Forward Your Career?
Becoming a comedian was never part of Anjelah Johnson-Reyes’ plan. She started out pursuing acting, going on auditions, working as an extra, waiting tables, and facing periods of unemployment when work wasn’t available. Comedy wasn’t the goal... it was something she stumbled into. While taking an...
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Larry King on Life, Comedy & the Art of the Interview
The Industry Blue print sits down with legendary broadcaster Larry King to explore the life, career, and curiosity behind one of the most recognizable interviewers in history. From his humble beginnings in radio to hosting Larry King Live on CNN for 25 years, King built a legacy by asking simple...
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Big Jay Oakerson: A True Product of Philly & New York Comedy
Big Jay Oakerson is a product of both Philadelphia and New York, two cities that shaped his voice, his comedy, and his approach to the business. A longtime fixture of the New York comedy scene, Jay came up learning first-hand from the comedians he looked up to, absorbing the lessons, stories, and...
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Nate Jackson: Crowd Work, Social Media, and Creating on Stage
Nate Jackson is a stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and entrepreneur from Tacoma, Washington. He began performing locally before creating the Super Funny Comedy Show and eventually opening the Super Funny Comedy Club, establishing himself as both a performer and a force in the comedy community.…
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Rick Messina: Life as a Comedy Manager
Rick Messina has spent decades behind the scenes of the comedy business as a producer, manager, and talent representative, helping guide the careers of some of comedy’s most talented performers, including Tim Allen. In this episode, Rick takes us inside his career and the world of comedy...
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Eddie Lfft: Managers, Comics & the Business of Comedy
In this episode Industry Standard, Eddie takes us behind the scenes of the comedy business, from the complicated relationship between managers and clients to how he sees the industry as a whole. He opens up about his own Achilles heel, what he would change about his life, and the moments in his...
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Yakov Smirnoff: The Story Behind "What A Country!"
Yakov Smirnoff came to America from the Soviet Union in 1977 with little money and limited English, determined to build a new life. He started out working as a bartender before finding his way into stand up comedy, where he turned the culture shock of being an immigrant into his greatest source…
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Ask Me Anything #22: Stage Time, Managers, Creating a Comedy Scene & How to Actually Level Up
Questions on this week's episode of Ask Me Anything #22 How should a new comic in 2026 be thinking about building stage time, clubs, festivals, podcast or something else entirely? How long do you have to pound the pavement as a comic before you start making it? What's a fair deal structure today...
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Josh Adam Meyers: Music with Comedy, Authenticity, Jamming with Burr, and Addiction
Josh Adam Meyers is a comedian with the energy of a rock star and the instincts of a stand up. His comedy is loud, unpredictable, personal, and built around a fearless stage presence. He’s spent years carving out his own lane in comedy, bringing together storytelling, absurdity, music, and an...
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Zoe Friedman: Intern to Discovering New Talent & How Comedians Got on Letterman
Zoe Friedman has spent decades helping shape the comedy industry from behind the scenes. From discovering and developing stand up talent to booking for The Late Show with David Letterman, leading talent development at Comedy Central, and working with Jimmy Kimmel Live! Her influence has reached...
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Ask Me Anything #21: Tapes, Club Residencies, Auditions, and Egos
Questions answered in this episode of Ask Me Anything: What are the tells in a tape or video link that immediately signal real comic maturity to you? When a comedian earns a one-month residency by getting passed, booking an audition, or winning a contest, what does that mean for their career?…
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Adam Conover: Built a Comedy Career Without Being a Club Comic
Adam Conover started out doing sketch comedy and stand-up before landing at CollegeHumor, where his sharp, curious style quickly stood out. That eventually led to Adam Ruins Everything, the show that put him on the map and helped carve out his unique voice, mixing comedy with a love of asking...
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Earthquake: From Serving His Country to Making the World Laugh
Earthquake, is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and radio personality known for his commanding stage presence, booming voice, and sharp observations on everyday life. Before comedy, he served in the U.S. Air Force and worked various jobs while developing his act.He built his career by…
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Yohay Sponder: The Story Behind The Stand Up
Yohay Sponder is an Israeli stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and producer who has become one of the most recognizable English-language comedians to emerge from Israel. Sponder began performing stand-up after his military service and quickly established himself at clubs throughout Tel Aviv. His...
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Ask Me Anything #20: Comic Personas, The Difficulties With Producing and Working With Agents
In this episode, we talk about the challenges of producing complex shows, the difference between who comedians are onstage and offstage, and what it’s like working with agents from a manager’s perspective.
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Faizon Love: Acting, The Apollo & Starting Comedy at 15
In this episode, Faizon Love reflects on starting stand up comedy at just 15 years old, pursuing a career before his family even knew he was performing. He shares stories from his early days at the legendary Apollo Theater with Steve Harvey, the lessons he learned coming up in the business, and...
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Erica Rhodes: A Natural Performer, Comic Timing & Career Growth
In this episode, we sit down with Erica Rhodes to discuss the experiences that led her into comedy, including how a failed audition unexpectedly pushed her toward performing at her first open mic. She shares how she displayed natural comic timing from a young age and how those early experiences...
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Ask Me Anything #19 Produced Shows, Creating Opportunities, & International Comics
A highlight of this week's episode covers years of producing comedy shows and how carefully building a lineup can shape the entire energy of a night. Producing your own show isn’t just booking funny people , it’s understanding rhythm, momentum, tone, and audience psychology. Creating a lineup is...
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Lahna Turner: Comedy Journey, Family, & Co-Directing "Come What May"
Lahna Turner is a stand up comedian, writer, musician, and filmmaker whose career has been deeply shaped by the balance between comedy, motherhood, and life on the road. Known for blending personal storytelling with music and sharp observational humor, Turner built a career while also raising a...
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Little Miss Sunshine Producer David Friendly on Trusting Your Instincts | ISP
Academy Award-nominated producer David Friendly (Little Miss Sunshine, Big Mama's House) sits down with Barry to talk about his journey from concert promoter to Hollywood heavyweight. He opens up about the decisions that made him, the ones that didn't, and what it really takes to survive a 25+…
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Bob Saget on Comedy, Loss, and Life at 60 | ISP
Bob Saget sits down with legendary comedy manager Barry Katz for a raw, wide-ranging conversation covering Bob's new stand-up special 0 to 60, his early days performing at the Improv and Catch a Rising Star, managing Louis C.K. and landing him opening spots for Jerry Seinfeld, the Larry David...
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Charles Fleischer: The Man Behind the Voices
In this wide-ranging podcast interview, comedian, actor, and entertainer Charles Fleischer — best known as the voice of Roger Rabbit — opens up about his career in stand-up comedy, character work, vocal dynamics, and multi-character performance. Fleischer discusses his comedic inspirations,...
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Every Part Of The Industry With Harry Basil!
In this episode, legendary comedian and entertainer Harry Basil shares his incredible journey from a tough childhood in New Jersey to becoming a standout act at the iconic Comedy Store and beyond. He dives into his early inspirations, the hustle of breaking into Hollywood, and the unconventional,...
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Why Most Scripts Aren’t Good Enough | Michael Jamin
In this episode of the Industry Standard with Barry Katz, Barry Katz sits down with veteran TV writer and showrunner Michael Jamin to discuss screenwriting, comedy writing, television writing, and breaking into the Hollywood entertainment industry. Michael shares the truth about writing great...
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Legendary Comedy Manager BARRY KATZ Answers Your Questions | AMA 18
In this AMA episode, Barry answers real questions from comics around the world — covering female comics navigating a boys’ club, international comedians breaking into the U.S. market, door guy vs. agency strategy, social media growth, ego vs. confidence, AI in comedy, and the biggest…
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The Genius Behind The Sledge-O-Matic | Gallagher
Host and veteran comedy manager Barry Katz sits down with the legendary Gallagher — one of stand-up comedy's most iconic and inventive performers — for a wide-ranging, no-holds-barred conversation. From his early days road-managing Jim Stafford to becoming the top-earning comic of the '80s and...
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How To Go From Entertainer To Entrepreneur | Brandon T Jackson
In this episode, Brandon T. Jackson talks about navigating Hollywood, the shift to self-tape auditions , and why artists today have to think like entrepreneurs. From big studio films to building his own projects, he breaks down what it takes to stay relevant, provide for a family, and keep…
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Paul Telegdy
In this Industry Standard episode, Barry Katz sits down with legendary television executive Paul Telegdy for a rare, inside look at leadership, legacy, and decision-making at the highest levels of entertainment. Paul reflects on stepping into major roles at NBC, what it means to inherit massive...
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The One Place Every Great Comedy Career Is Built | AMA 17
In this Ask Me Anything episode, Barry Katz answers real questions from artists and creatives navigating the entertainment business. Drawing on four decades of experience, Barry speaks candidly about resilience, rejection, growth, and what it really takes to build a lasting career—turning…
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Carrot Top Classic Rerelease
Originally recorded in 2018, this classic Industry Standard episode features Barry Katz in conversation with legendary comedian and Las Vegas headliner Carrot Top. In this throwback interview, Carrot Top opens up about his decades-long career, building one of the most successful residencies in...
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TJ Miller
In this Industry Standard episode, Barry Katz sits down with comedian, actor, and writer TJ Miller to talk about comedy, career longevity, and the deeper responsibility of making people laugh. Known for his breakout role on Silicon Valley, scene-stealing performances in blockbuster films like...
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Andy Huggins
In this Industry Standard episode, Barry Katz sits down with stand-up comedian Andy Huggins for a candid conversation about comedy careers, creative momentum, and the moments that unexpectedly change everything. Andy breaks down how a simple Facebook thought turned into a full comedy special,...
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Ask Me Anything 16
In this Ask Me Anything episode, Barry answers real questions submitted by artists and creatives navigating the entertainment business. Drawing on four decades of experience representing legends like Dave Chappelle, Wanda Sykes, and Bill Burr, Barry speaks candidly about resilience, rejection,...
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Andrew Santino Classic Rerelease
In this Industry Standard classic episode, filmed in 2019, Barry sits with comedian and actor Andrew Santino (Dave, I’m Dying Up Here, Mixology, This Is Us) Santino traces his path from working on Punk’d with Ashton Kutcher and Jason Goldberg to establishing himself as a stand-up and...
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Dustin Ybarra
In this episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, comedian and actor Dustin Ybarra opens up about his career journey — from getting discovered through Stand Up for Diversity to landing roles in We Bought a Zoo, 21 & Over, Kevin Probably Saves the World, and Ghosts. Dustin reflects on the ups...
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Craig Shoemaker
In this episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz sits down with comedian and actor Craig Shoemaker for a wide-ranging, hilarious, and deeply personal conversation. Known for his unforgettable “Love Master” character, Craig talks about how that voice and persona grew out of his own awkward teenage...
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Danny Robinson
Danny Robinson is a talent agent who got his start in the mail room. Before that, he was on the road with his parents as a part of their closing act. Growing up on the road, Danny learned a lot about the entertainment industry. Danny got his start at Ashley Famous, and after several summers and...
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Ask Me Anything 15
In this Ask Me Anything episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, Barry dives into practical advice for comedians at every stage of their career. He shares insights on writing and originality, drawing lessons from comedy legends like Dave Chappelle, Jim Jefferies, George Carlin, Wanda Sykes,...
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Ed Bassmaster
In this episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, viral YouTube pioneer Ed Bassmaster shares his incredible journey from working retail at an AT&T store to becoming one of the most recognizable character comedians on the internet. He dives deep into the origins of his iconic alter egos and...
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Michael Madsen Classic Rerelease
In this gripping episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, legendary actor Michael Madsen opens up like never before. From almost missing out on his iconic role as Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs to improvising unforgettable moments on set, Madsen shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories…
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Peter Engel Classic Rerelease
In Memory of Peter Engel June 30, 1936 - March 4, 2025In this classic rerelease episode, Legendary TV producer Peter Engel joins Barry Katz to share wild stories from his career, spanning his early days around Saturday Night Live to creating the iconic TV hits like Saved by the Bell, California...
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Cris Italia
In this emotional and insightful episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz sits down with comedy club mogul Cris Italia to talk about building “The Stand,” coping with loss, and shaping the careers of comics like Pete Davidson, Andrew Schulz, and Nikki Glaser. Italia reflects on the influence of...
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Ask Me Anything 14 w/ Barry Katz
In this heartfelt “Ask Me Anything” episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz answers audience questions about navigating the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of originality, adaptability, and resilience. He shares how he evaluates projects based on unique characters and fresh...
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Ask Me Anything 13 w/ Barry Katz
In this powerful AMA episode, legendary comedy manager Barry Katz breaks down what separates the good from the unforgettable in stand-up comedy. He shares why having a distinct voice — one that’s instantly recognizable — is non-negotiable for any comic who wants to rise above the noise. Barry…
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Adam Ray Classic Rerelease
In this episode of Industry Standard, comedian and actor Adam Ray—best known for his spot-on Dr. Phil impression—opens up about the defining moments of his childhood that led him to a career in comedy. From being an overweight kid with the nickname “Quick Fat” and growing up with divorced…
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Chris Myers
Legendary sportscaster Chris Myers has been the voice behind some of the biggest moments in sports — from Super Bowls and World Series to the Olympics and beyond. But in this episode of INDUSTRY STANDARD, he opens up like never before. Chris takes us behind the mic and into the pressure of…
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Gil Junger
Barry Katz sits with film and television director, Gil Junger (10 Things I Hate About You, Ellen), for a deep conversation on the mental blocks that actors and artists face in the entertainment industry. Gil shares what he looks for in actors, as well as incredible stories about Heath Ledger's…
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Ask Me Anything 12 w/ Barry Katz
Comedy talent manager and producer Barry Katz answers your questions about the stand-up comedy business in this episode of Industry Standard. Barry answers questions about how to turn your career around, his favorite SNL sketches, the traits of his least favorite comedians, how avant-garde...
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Paul Rodriguez Classic Rerelease
In this episode, talent manager Barry Katz sits with stand-up comedian and actor Paul Rodriguez to discuss Paul's path to success in the entertainment business, from his desire to get out of Compton, to working as a doorman at the Comedy Store and getting noticed by Mitzi Shore, to becoming one…
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About this show
A one-of-a-kind insiders look at Hollywood from a totally different perspective. This inspirational weekly series provides an “all access pass” to the entertainment business through the eyes of comedy manager/producer Barry Katz and the industry's biggest "behind the scenes" players who candidly reveal the risky decisions they made that led to the most groundbreaking internet, television, radio, music, and film content in the world. Combining humor, insight, and motivation; Katz provides the blueprint for the audience to take their careers to the next tier, while showcasing each guests’ extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to the highest levels in their field.
Hosted by
Barry Katz
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