Messed-Up To Set-Ups - A MichaelHalcomb.Live Podcast

Hello, Friend! It’s episode 131 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups, I sit down with the absolutely brilliant and hilarious Queen Aaliyah Ford. Our conversation is jam-packed with comedy wisdom, clean humor, real-life stories, and shared laughs as we talk about the grind of stand-up, the power of collaboration, and what it takes to keep growing without losing your voice. We get into Queen Aaliyah’s name, her Chicago roots, her move to North Carolina, the early days of building a room and earning respect, why bully crowd work misses the mark, how family chaos became comedy gold, and the kind of momentum that keeps a comedian moving forward. At its heart, this is an honest conversation about laughter, craft, and staying sharp. Tune in!And, hey, if you’re looking for a place to grow your skillset, I recently published Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed for exactly that reason.This entire book is built around helping comedians identify the mental obstacles that quietly slow their growth and steal their momentum. If this article resonated with you, I think you’ll find a lot more of that inside the book. You can check out sample pages HERE. If you’re not yet a subscriber, use code MH10LIVE at checkout HERE for 10% off. Free subscribers automatically receive 15% off, and paid subscribers receive 35% off because I’m a big believer in rewarding people who invest in themselves. 👉 Click HERE to grab the book.And if you’re ready to double down in a BIGGER way, consider joining my Comedy Vault. It’s my private collection of premium resources, trainings, workshops, and tools designed to help comedians continue growing long after the initial excitement fades. The first bet gets you into the game. Doubling down is what changes who you become.👉 Click HERE to unlock the Comedy Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of Messed-Up to Set-Ups, I’m back in the lab with Phillip Anthony for a hilarious, insightful, and surprisingly practical conversation about comedy and growth but all as we workshop some jokes together. Along the way Phillip also shares some hard-earned wisdom on failing well, staying professional, learning from veteran comedians, and building a career with a business mindset instead of just a dream. If you’re into joke writing, we pull back the curtain and give you an up-close-and-personal look. This episode will make you laugh and think at the same time. Tune in!And, hey, if you’re looking for a place to grow your skillset, I recently published Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed for exactly that reason.This entire book is built around helping comedians identify the mental obstacles that quietly slow their growth and steal their momentum. If this article resonated with you, I think you’ll find a lot more of that inside the book. You can check out sample pages HERE. If you’re not yet a subscriber, use code MH10LIVE at checkout HERE for 10% off. Free subscribers automatically receive 15% off, and paid subscribers receive 35% off because I’m a big believer in rewarding people who invest in themselves. 👉 Click HERE to grab the book.And if you’re ready to double down in a BIGGER way, consider joining my Comedy Vault. It’s my private collection of premium resources, trainings, workshops, and tools designed to help comedians continue growing long after the initial excitement fades. The first bet gets you into the game. Doubling down is what changes who you become.👉 Click HERE to unlock the Comedy Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of Messed-Up to Set-Ups, I sit down with comedian Phillip Anthony for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, intelligent, and encouraging as we dig into his journey from the Bronx to Massachusetts, the wild moment that accidentally launched his comedy path, and the hard-earned lessons that helped him build real momentum on stage. We talk about finding your voice, turning your messy life experiences into laughter, and why the adage “perfect your five” matters so much. We also get into how crowd work, mentorship, and clean, relatable truth can shape a comedian’s future. If you’re a comedian, a creative, or just someone who loves a good story with practical wisdom and plenty of laughs, this one’s for you. Tune in!And, hey, if you’re looking for a place to grow your skillset, I recently published Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed for exactly that reason.This entire book is built around helping comedians identify the mental obstacles that quietly slow their growth and steal their momentum. If this article resonated with you, I think you’ll find a lot more of that inside the book. You can check out sample pages HERE. If you’re not yet a subscriber, use code MH10LIVE at checkout HERE for 10% off. Free subscribers automatically receive 15% off, and paid subscribers receive 35% off because I’m a big believer in rewarding people who invest in themselves. 👉 Click HERE to grab the book.And if you’re ready to double down in a BIGGER way, consider joining my Comedy Vault. It’s my private collection of premium resources, trainings, workshops, and tools designed to help comedians continue growing long after the initial excitement fades. The first bet gets you into the game. Doubling down is what changes who you become.👉 Click HERE to unlock the Comedy Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of Messed-Up to Set-Ups, I’m joined once again by comedian Joel Brill. This is Part 2 of our conversation, and we do what comedians love most: Take messy real-life frustrations and turn them into laughs with live joke-workshopping and quick riffing. We build some momentum by digging into technology that seems to hate us, autocorrect disasters, Siri and Alexa behaving like jealous housemates, and a pile of playful tangents that somehow keep getting funnier as we go. If you enjoy clean, clever comedy, practical joke-building, and a behind-the-scenes look at how raw thoughts become tighter bits, you’re going to have a great time with this episode. Tune in!And, hey, if you’re looking for a place to grow your skillset, I recently published Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed for exactly that reason.This entire book is built around helping comedians identify the mental obstacles that quietly slow their growth and steal their momentum. If this article resonated with you, I think you’ll find a lot more of that inside the book. You can check out sample pages HERE. If you’re not yet a subscriber, use code MH10LIVE at checkout HERE for 10% off. Free subscribers automatically receive 15% off, and paid subscribers receive 35% off because I’m a big believer in rewarding people who invest in themselves. 👉 Click HERE to grab the book.And if you’re ready to double down in a BIGGER way, consider joining my Comedy Vault. It’s my private collection of premium resources, trainings, workshops, and tools designed to help comedians continue growing long after the initial excitement fades. The first bet gets you into the game. Doubling down is what changes who you become.👉 Click HERE to unlock the Comedy Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

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Hello, Friend! In this episode of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast, I sit down with the “Loveable Curmudgeon,” comedian Joel Brill, and step into his comedy world. We chat about everything from his early inspirations to the art of storytelling. We get into the challenges of balancing family life with a comedy career and why, sometimes, a decade-and-a-half hiatus might be necessary. Joel also shares his unique insights on how the comedy scene has evolved in the last decade, the impacts of social media, and the delicate dance of crowd work. It’s a conversation packed with good laughs, good stories, and good wisdom. Tune in!And before you tune in, I’d be so grateful and honored if you’d order a copy of my new book: Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed.If you click HERE, you can see some sample pages. If you don’t yet subscribe to this site, you can still get a 10% discount at your purchase with the code: MH10LIVE. But, if you become a FREE Subscriber, you can automatically get a 15% discount.If you sign up as a paid subscriber, I’ll send you a 35% discount. Also, when you join that inner circle, you’ll instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast, I chat with the super kind and absolutely hilarious Bonnie Works Gardner. We workshop some jokes in real time, talk about how she creates song parodies to share personal stories, and do some on-the-spot riffing on headlines and cliches. We also discuss Bonnie’s take on clean comedy and her knack for turning life’s messed-up moments into humor. Plus, I share insights from my new book, Comedy Mind Hacks. Tune in!Oh, and if you’d like to show some love, I’d be so grateful and honored if you’d order a copy of said book: Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed.If you click HERE, you can see some sample pages. If you don’t yet subscribe to this site, you can still get a 10% discount at your purchase with the code: MH10LIVE. But, if you become a FREE Subscriber, you can automatically get a 15% discount.If you sign up as a paid subscriber, I’ll send you a 35% discount. Also, when you join that inner circle, you’ll instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! Welcome to Episode 125 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast. In this one, I sit down with the incredibly talented and funny Bonnie Works Gardner. We get into her comedy journey, discuss her unique knack for crafting hilarious song parodies, and the personal stories that fuel her humor. Bonnie also shares insights on clean comedy, the open mic scene, and even her first-hand take on diabetes! Whether you’re a comedy fan or comedian, this episode is packed with laughs and insights. Tune in!Hey, before you go, let me say “Thanks!” for reading. And, if you’d like to show some love, please order a copy of my new book. Here’s the link: Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed.If you click HERE, you can see some sample pages. If you don’t yet subscribe to this site, you can still get a 10% discount at your purchase with the code: MH10LIVE. But, if you become a FREE Subscriber, you can automatically get a 15% discount.If you sign up as a paid subscriber, I’ll send you a 35% discount. Also, when you join that inner circle, you’ll instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault, including FREE access to one of my classes (see below) and access to “The Green Room” content. But that’s not all, there’s way more:* The Joke Writer’s Lab Video Course: Unrestricted access to my step-by-step joke writing course on Udemy.* The Green Room: Access to all my private posts that look behind the scenes.* The Comedian Spotlight: A feature and promotion to my entire audience in an upcoming newsletter!* The Joke Blueprint Playbook: My 17-page manual for structuring your thoughts and polishing your jokes.* The Premium “Round-Up” Newsletter: My exclusive weekly deep-dive delivered every Sunday.* The Round-Up Repository: Full access to my private database containing every past and future newsletter.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups,” I continue my chat with the hilarious Dr. Terry Lindvall about everything from holy mocking to the humor of Jesus. We get into the art of satire, the great cussing debate, and even share some laugh-out-loud stories from church history. After checking this out, you may leave with a new perspective on comedy and faith. Tune in!And…before you go, check this out…my new book is ready for preorder: Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed. Secure your copy HERE. It goes live on 6/8/26.If you click HERE, you can see some sample pages. If you don’t yet subscribe to this site, you can still get a 10% discount at your purchase with the code: MH10LIVE. But, if you become a FREE Subscriber, you can automatically get a 15% discount.If you sign up as a paid subscriber, I’ll send you a 35% discount. Also, when you join that inner circle, you’ll instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault:* The Joke Writer’s Lab Video Course: Unrestricted access to my step-by-step joke writing course on Udemy.* The Comedian Spotlight: A feature and promotion to my entire audience in an upcoming newsletter!* The Joke Blueprint Playbook: My 17-page manual for structuring your thoughts and polishing your jokes.* The Premium “Round-Up” Newsletter: My exclusive weekly deep-dive delivered every Sunday.* The Round-Up Repository: Full access to my private database containing every past and future newsletter.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups,” I chat with the hilarious Dr. Terry Lindvall about the surprising humor hidden in the Bible, church history, and the life of Jesus. We also get into Terry’s unique career path, his many books, and his connections to Hollywood. While we discuss the comedic twists in Genesis, we also dive into Dr. Lindvall’s book, God Mocks, which is what led me to him in the first place. In addition to all that, we explore the art of joke writing, and share laughs about Noah’s Ark and more. Terry’s insights are as enlightening as they are entertaining. Seriously, while this episode’s a bit out of the norm, trust me, you’re not gonna want to miss it. And…before you go, check this out…my new book is ready for preorder: Comedy Mindhacks: 100 Mental Shifts To Help Comedians & Creatives Succeed. Secure your copy HERE.If you click HERE, you can see some sample pages. If you don’t yet subscribe to this site, you can still get a 10% discount at your purchase with the code: MH10LIVE. But, if you become a FREE Subscriber, you can automatically get a 15% discount.If you sign up as a paid subscriber, I’ll send you a 35% discount. Also, when you join that inner circle, you’ll instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault:* The Joke Writer’s Lab Video Course: Unrestricted access to my step-by-step joke writing course on Udemy.* The Comedian Spotlight: A feature and promotion to my entire audience in an upcoming newsletter!* The Joke Blueprint Playbook: My 17-page manual for structuring your thoughts and polishing your jokes.* The Premium “Round-Up” Newsletter: My exclusive weekly deep-dive delivered every Sunday.* The Round-Up Repository: Full access to my private database containing every past and future newsletter.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups,” I chat with humorist and economist, Chris Stiffler, about his unique journey from in the world of comedy. We share helpful insights that inspire growth in humor writing and momentum for stand-up. We explore the art of writing long articles, the power of specificity, and how to find creativity in unexpected places. Whether you’re seeking laughs or practical wisdom, this episode is packed with stories and insights to keep you moving forward. Tune in!Oh, and if you want to hear real, raw, and candid thoughts about some of my journey in stand-up comedy, before you go, be sure to download your copy of my brand new audiobook, Road Chronicles of a Comedian: 30 Hours to Somewhere for just $3.99. Click the image below, or click HERE.I also want to invite you to upgrade to a paid subscriber of MichaelHalcomb.Live today. When you join the inner circle, you instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault:* The Joke Writer’s Lab Video Course: Unrestricted access to my step-by-step joke writing course on Udemy.* The Comedian Spotlight: A feature and promotion to my entire audience in an upcoming newsletter!* The Joke Blueprint Playbook: My 17-page manual for structuring your thoughts and polishing your jokes.* The Premium “Round-Up” Newsletter: My exclusive weekly deep-dive delivered every Sunday.* The Round-Up Repository: Full access to my private database containing every past and future newsletter.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups,” I chat with the brilliant and hilarious Christopher Stiffler. We get into just about everything, from the unpredictable weather to the art of teaching economics with humor. We dive into his journey from a high school quipster to a humor columnist, explore the influence of comedic legends like Dave Barry, and try to work a fun rhetorical device into the conversation along the way. Want some insights from a humor columnist? Tune in! And…Before you go, be sure to download your copy of my brand new audiobook, Road Chronicles of a Comedian: 30 Hours to Somewhere for just $3.99. Click the image below, or click HERE.I also want to invite you to upgrade to a paid subscriber of MichaelHalcomb.Live today. When you join the inner circle, you instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault:* The Joke Writer’s Lab Video Course: Unrestricted access to my step-by-step joke writing course on Udemy.* The Comedian Spotlight: A feature and promotion to my entire audience in an upcoming newsletter!* The Joke Blueprint Playbook: My 17-page manual for structuring your thoughts and polishing your jokes.* The Premium “Round-Up” Newsletter: My exclusive weekly deep-dive delivered every Sunday.* The Round-Up Repository: Full access to my private database containing every past and future newsletter.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! It’s episode 120 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast. In part 2 of my chat with comedian Hal Wilson, we get into his journey from thinking he was a gangster to embracing stand-up comedy. We dive into hilarious stories from the 90s, explore the concept of emotional truth in comedy, and even create some jokes on the spot. Hal shares his unique perspective on suburban life and the unexpected humor it brings. Hey, before you tune into the episode, let me share a short story with you. About 18 months ago, I went to an open mic in Hawai’i. Not a single actual audience member showed up. The room was just filled with other comedians, arms crossed, waiting for their turn. Maybe you’ve encountered something similar. Anyway, since all these comedians had already heard my material several times, I decided to throw my jokes out and use my 7 minutes to practice crowd work. Yes, crowd work on other comedians.It pissed one guy off so badly that he started cussing at me, while I was on stage, in front of the booker and other comedians. He was furiously telling me to “do real comedy” and to stop wasting everyone’s time. The fact is, he was wasting my time on the mic. Y’all, comedy can be cutthroat, and even open mics can be a battlefield!The truth is, many comedians operate on a toxic, “limited good” mindset. They believe that if you get stage time or fame, you are stealing it from them. So, they try to stop you. They criticize you to weed you out. It sucks!!! I’m trying to create the opposite: an environment of encouragement and camaraderie. Anyway, I confronted that guy in the parking lot that night right to his face, but the real victory came months later. We ended up booked on the same lineup for a weekend string of five real shows for Don’t Tell Comedy. Afterward, he came up to me, shocked that I had actual jokes and that I completely killed. He actually apologized, which is rare in comedy.In that moment, I realized something vital: I could’ve shrunk back during that set where he interrupted me weeks earlier. I could’ve been a weasel in that parking lot. I could’ve quit. But I didn’t let his criticism determine my ending, nor did I let his apology determine my future. Why? Because I was sure of myself. And I was sure of myself because I know joke mechanics, joke structure, and I have an unmatchable work ethic.I left the open mic scene about a year ago. It’s just not for me. Maybe you want to get out of that scene, too. Well, you can. If you are tired of toxic open mics and want access to the exact, field-tested tools I’ve used, tools that have helped me bypass the gatekeepers, haters, and critics and turn raw thoughts into great jokes and sets, I want to invite you to upgrade to a paid subscriber of MichaelHalcomb.Live today.When you join the inner circle, you instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault:* The Joke Writer’s Lab Video Course: Unrestricted access to my step-by-step joke writing course on Udemy.* The Comedian Spotlight: A feature and promotion to my entire audience in an upcoming newsletter!* The Joke Blueprint Playbook: My 17-page manual for structuring your thoughts and polishing your jokes.* The Premium “Round-Up” Newsletter: My exclusive weekly deep-dive delivered every Sunday.* The Round-Up Repository: Full access to my private database containing every past and future newsletter.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! It’s episode 119 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast. In this episode, I chat with the hilarious Hal Wilson about his journey from teaching to tackling the comedy stage. We dive into his first open mic in Hollywood, the art of clean comedy, and the unexpected challenges of crowd work. Hal also shares his comedic influences and offers advice for aspiring comedians. Plus, we explore the unique vibe of performing in Savannah, GA and the importance of staying true to oneself. Hey, before you tune into the episode, let me share a short story with you. About 18 months ago, I went to an open mic in Hawai’i. Not a single actual audience member showed up. The room was just filled with other comedians, arms crossed, waiting for their turn. Maybe you’ve encountered something similar. Anyway, since all these comedians had already heard my material several times, I decided to throw my jokes out and use my 7 minutes to practice crowd work. Yes, crowd work on other comedians.It pissed one guy off so badly that he started cussing at me, while I was on stage, in front of the booker and other comedians. He was furiously telling me to “do real comedy” and to stop wasting everyone’s time. The fact is, he was wasting my time on the mic. Y’all, comedy can be cutthroat, and even open mics can be a battlefield!The truth is, many comedians operate on a toxic, “limited good” mindset. They believe that if you get stage time or fame, you are stealing it from them. So, they try to stop you. They criticize you to weed you out. It sucks!!! I’m trying to create the opposite: an environment of encouragement and camaraderie. Anyway, I confronted that guy in the parking lot that night right to his face, but the real victory came months later. We ended up booked on the same lineup for a weekend string of five real shows for Don’t Tell Comedy. Afterward, he came up to me, shocked that I had actual jokes and that I completely killed. He actually apologized, which is rare in comedy.In that moment, I realized something vital: I could’ve shrunk back during that set where he interrupted me weeks earlier. I could’ve been a weasel in that parking lot. I could’ve quit. But I didn’t let his criticism determine my ending, nor did I let his apology determine my future. Why? Because I was sure of myself. And I was sure of myself because I know joke mechanics, joke structure, and I have an unmatchable work ethic.I left the open mic scene about a year ago. It’s just not for me. Maybe you want to get out of that scene, too. Well, you can. If you are tired of toxic open mics and want access to the exact, field-tested tools I’ve used, tools that have helped me bypass the gatekeepers, haters, and critics and turn raw thoughts into great jokes and sets, I want to invite you to upgrade to a paid subscriber of MichaelHalcomb.Live today. When you join the inner circle, you instantly unlock my entire premium comedy vault:* The Joke Writer’s Lab Video Course: Unrestricted access to my step-by-step joke writing course on Udemy.* The Comedian Spotlight: A feature and promotion to my entire audience in an upcoming newsletter!* The Joke Blueprint Playbook: My 17-page manual for structuring your thoughts and polishing your jokes.* The Premium “Round-Up” Newsletter: My exclusive weekly deep-dive delivered every Sunday.* The Round-Up Repository: Full access to my private database containing every past and future newsletter.👉 Click HERE to Upgrade Your Subscription & Unlock the Vault. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups,” I chat once again with comedian Yoshee So. This episode’s all about the craft of joke writing. We pull back the curtain, show you our process, and share some laugh-out-loud stories about HOA presidency. Plus, we discuss the levels of friendship and the privilege paradox. This is a fun episode full of insights and laughs. Tune in!Alright…before you go, let me ask: Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? If so, I would highly recommend checking out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups,” I dive into the hilarious world of friendship hierarchies with Atlanta-based comedian, Yoshee So. We get into his comedy journey, his writing process, and some advice for other comedians. We also get into the comedic levels of friendship, from the casual “water their plants” kinda buddy to the ultimate “ride-or-die” partner who knows all your secrets. This episode has lots of laughs as we share stories about bad bets, questionable choices, and an infamous “spring break rash.” If you watch/listen, you may learn why your closest friend might know more about you than your spouse. Tune in!Alright…before you go, let me ask: Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? If so, I would highly recommend checking out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast, I, Michael Halcomb, dive back into the world of Southern humor with the hilarious comedy duo Austin & Leb (although, mostly just Leb, due to Austin’s nuisance of an internet connection - please ignore a couple parts where his lagging audio causing a little audio friction). We explore the quirks of Southern mamas and papas, and try to turn the typical stereotypes into some comedy gold. From “Bless your heart!” to truck brand loyalty, we riff on it all. You’ll also get hear about and see our creative processes live and in real time. So, whether you’re a comedy fan or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with fun and insights. Tune in!Oh…and before you go, let me ask: Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? If so, I would highly recommend checking out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend. If you missed The Joke Writer’s Lab live stream #4 today, you can watch it again at your leisure. In this session, I take a random, half-formed idea and turn it into a fully structured story bit using what I call “The W Method,” showing in real time how a simple premise about buying and trying to sell/trade in a car can evolve into something funny. I also offer insight into a powerful rhetorical device (epistrophe), which can help sharpen punchlines and control audience misdirection. So, once again, I pull back the curtain on my process and let everyone see the messy, practical, behind-the-scenes process of joke writing. Tune in - the replay video is below.Oh…and before you go, let me ask: Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? If so, I would highly reccommend checking out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! In this episode of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast, I, Michael Halcomb, sit down with the hilarious, Tennessee-based comedy duo Austin & Leb. We get into their journey from church skits to tours, to sharing insights on improv, to crowd work, to the art of keeping audiences engaged. We also discuss their viral Facebook Live moment and how they turn pure chaos into comedy gold. (I featured for them last weekend and, honestly, they’re really really good at it!) Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with humor and insight. Tune in!Oh…and before you go, let me ask: Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? If so, I would highly recommend checking out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course taken by nearly 100 students, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

NOTE: As of this episode, I’m no longer posting my podcasts on YouTube as I’ll be using that platform only for comedy clips and YT Shorts. Going forward, podcast episodes will be found at MichaelHalcomb.Live/Podcast, but also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most other dedicated podcast platforms.Hello, Friend! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups",” I sit down again with Herb Kay. We workshop some jokes by digging into the insanity surrounding holidays and some of the traditions connected to them. We also get into the comedic potential of Easter, you know, things like six-foot bunnies and what the future of Valentine’s Day would look like if it were a day of revenge. Here in Part 2 of our chat we also do some on-the-spot comedy and riff on things in the headlines. Tune in! And…before you go, let me ask: Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? If so, check out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friend! It’s Episode #113 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast. In this one, I with NC-based comedian, Herb Kay, who states that AI is revolutionizing his joke writing. Herb also shares his journey from a fifth-grade joke writer to stepping on stage. In addition, we get into the importance of timing and crowd work, and Here shares some of the unexpected ways he thinks AI can mimic or even out-funny human comedians. For fresh insights, good laughs, and some perspective on the future of stand-up, tune in!Before you go, let me ask: Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? If so, check out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! In this episode of “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast, I team up once again with comedian Phil “Grampy” Ketron. We explore “The Art of Escalation” and dive headfirst into the comedic chaos of everyday life, from automated 911 calls to FaceTime fiascos. We also reveal how to turn life’s absurdities, such as these, into comedy gold. Discover some of our techniques for crafting jokes, the value of comedy coaching, and how to elevate your routine. Whether you’re a seasoned comedian or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights and laughs you won’t wanna miss. Tune in!Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? Check out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends. Welcome to episode 110 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast. In this episode, I chat with Phil “Grampy” Ketron about the art of character comedy and the power of branding. We also get into how Phil's “Grampy” persona evolved from a simple idea into a strategic market positioning tool that he uses to help keep his act fresh and memorable. We share insights into niche audiences, discuss the importance of consistency, and reflect on the art of saying “No.” Also, Phil shares practical advice for comedians looking to stand out. Whether you’re at the open mic level or doing paid gigs, this conversation is packed with wisdom and humor that you won’t want to miss. Tune in!Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? Check out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! Welcome to episode 110 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast! Today I’m thrilled to have Paul Snyder back for Part 2 of our conversation. In this episode, we dig deeper into the art of joke writing and workshopping, focusing on a particular joke Paul has been crafting for over a year, part of which just hasn’t been working. Can we get over the hump? Join us as we brainstorm punchlines, discuss the Pavlovian response to “Hey, Babe!” and share laughs over joke writing exercises. Whether you’re new to all this, a long-time comedy enthusiast, a working comedian, or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with insights and humor. Tune in!Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? Check out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. This’ll also give you FREE access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get the newsletter HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! Welcome to episode 109 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast! In this episode, I sit down for a chat with the talented comedian, Paul Snyder, who’s based in Charlotte, North Carolina. We get into Paul’s comedy journey, starting with road trips with his dad listening to classic comedy tapes to discovering his passion for stand-up. We discuss the grind of the comedy world, the importance of staying focused, and the art of using silence on stage. Paul shares his experiences with comedy classes, the decision to work clean, and the value of having a strong support system. Whether you're a seasoned comedian or just starting out, this episode is jam packed with insights and laughs. Tune in!Are you ready to level up in your comedy journey? Check out these resources:* FREE - “The Round-Up”: My weekly comedy newsletter, choc-full of insights from videos, articles, and so on. If you subscribe, you’ll get access to “The Joke Blueprint Playbook.” Get it HERE.* FREE - The Joke Blueprint Playbook: Act now and get an exclusive, 17-page toolkit that I designed specifically to solve some of the biggest joke-writing struggles comedians have. This comprehensive guide is packed with actionable advice, and it’s entirely exclusive to this community. Get it HERE.* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

A small update: I’ll continue publishing daily posts on Substack, but beginning April 13th I’ll no longer send daily emails. Instead, and in an attempt to clutter up folks’ inboxes, I’m going to try sending out a weekly newsletter with links to and brief overviews of all the new posts.Hello, Friends! It’s episode 108 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast. In this episode, I chat with industry insider, Barry Katz, who reveals how legendary comedians are masterful snake oil salesmen, convincing audiences that their material is worth passing on. We also get into why the puzzle of a joke must stay just out of reach for the audience to keep laughing. Barry also shares practical mindset tips that’ll help drown out noise, doubt, and negativity, all with stories about legends like Rodney Dangerfield and Andy Huggins. Whether you’re an aspiring comedian or a seasoned performer, this conversation will urge you keep fighting, laughing, and improving. Ready to craft jokes that puzzle and captivate? Hit play and step into the mindset of one of comedy’s best. Tune in!Fact: The two biggest fears for any comedian are staring at a blank page without a punchline, and standing under a hot spotlight and completely forgetting the next joke. So, I built two completely online, self-paced courses to solve both of these problems permanently. Join the growing community of working comedians and first-timers who’ve already used these labs to completely bulletproof their sets:* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s episode 107 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast. In this episode, I chat with an absolute giant in the comedy world: Barry Katz. We discuss how original premises and emotional honesty can transform ordinary routines into unforgettable hits, and why every comedian needs a “hit song” in their act. Barry also shares some behind-the-scenes principles that turn routines into viral sensations, especially when it comes to emphasizing the power of phraseology and originality. Barry also talks about exploiting every avenue including books, podcasts, YouTube, or live rooms, to boost visibility and income in the comedy world. If you want to uncover some secrets to making your comedy career unstoppable, don’t miss this episode. Tune in!Fact: The two biggest fears for any comedian are staring at a blank page without a punchline, and standing under a hot spotlight and completely forgetting the next joke. So, I built two completely online, self-paced courses to solve both of these problems permanently. Join the growing community of working comedians and first-timers who’ve already used these labs to completely bulletproof their sets:* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends. Welcome to episode 107 of the “Messed-Up to Set-Ups” podcast. This was my second “The Joke Writer’s Lab” live stream. But if you missed it, no worries, you can watch it here on this site. In this episode, I had a viewer ask to: a) take a joke of his, b) punch it up, and c) show how I work backward from a punchline to a premise. That was really fun! I showed how using the “Z Method” and my “Y Method” can help do just that. I also introduced another rhetorical device, hypophora, and demonstrated on multiple jokes how that becomes an easy device for adding tags. So, whether you’re an aspiring comedian or just love a good laugh, this episode offers practical tips to elevate your joke writing game. Don't miss out on these completely FREE insights that can turn your everyday stories into comedy gold. Tune in!Fact: The two biggest fears for any comedian are staring at a blank page without a punchline, and standing under a hot spotlight and completely forgetting the next joke. So, I built two completely online, self-paced courses to solve both of these problems permanently. Join the growing community of working comedians and first-timers who’ve already used these labs to completely bulletproof their sets:* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s Episode 106 of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast. In this one, I’m thrilled to bring you Part 2 of my conversation with the legendary comedian Mack Dryden. Here we discuss more of Mack’s incredible journey from being an award-winning journalist to his experiences performing across the globe. Best of all, we workshop some jokes together! We pull back the curtain and let you see two comedians brainstorm, share ideas, and edit jokes. And…this episode’s packed with laughter, especially as we try to come up with content for Mack’s upcoming gig at a living funeral. Tune in!Fact: The two biggest fears for any comedian are staring at a blank page without a punchline, and standing under a hot spotlight and completely forgetting the next joke. So, I built two completely online, self-paced courses to solve both of these problems permanently. Join the growing community of working comedians and first-timers who’ve already used these labs to completely bulletproof their sets:* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! In this episode of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast, which is one of my favorites thus far, I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome the one, the only, the legendary comedian Mack Dryden. We get into his incredible journey from being an award-winning journalist and black belt in karate to becoming a celebrated comedian with appearances on The Tonight Show and roles in TV shows like Jag and The Guardian. Mack shares hilarious stories from his career, including a time when, on the way to a show, he picked up a young Eddie Murphy to feature for him. He also tells a story about a time he was kicked by Chuck Norris. We also explore his transition from group comedy to solo and discuss his passion for writing. This guy’s hilarious and has stories the rest of us wish we had. Tune in! ❦Fact: The two biggest fears for any comedian are staring at a blank page without a punchline, and standing under a hot spotlight and completely forgetting the next joke. So, I built two completely online, self-paced courses to solve both of these problems permanently. Join the growing community of working comedians and first-timers who’ve already used these labs to completely bulletproof their sets:* The Joke Writer’s Lab: Stop guessing at what makes people laugh. In this self-paced, online course, you’ll get the tools to find your unique comedic persona and learn the exact mechanics of writing a bulletproof joke. Get it HERE.* The Comedian’s Memory Lab: Never blank on stage again!!! Learn my insider method to build and flawlessly memorize your entire set, whether you are doing 3 minutes at an open mic or headlining for an hour. Get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s episode 104 of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast and I’m thrilled to welcome back the hilarious Tyrone Burston, a two-time Queen City Comedian of the Year. Join us as we workshop some jokes, chat about the dynamics of introversion and extroversion in relationships, and discuss what happens when a pedicure goes wrong. Also, Tyrone shares some of his comedic process as we brainstorm punchlines. Best of all, this episode offers a custom behind-the-scenes look at how jokes evolve over time. It’s a fun and insightful episode you don’t want to miss. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! In episode 103 of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast! I’m super stoked to welcome the hilarious Tyrone Burston, a two-time Queen City Comedian of the Year from Charlotte, NC. In this episode, we get into his journey from Hartford to Charlotte, his start in comedy, and the ups and downs of performing, including a memorable night at Showtime at the Apollo. Tyrone shares his insights on crafting a five-minute set, the necessity of comedic voice, and the importance of staying true to oneself. There are some real gems here so join us for great laughs, stories, and all-around solid advice. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s Episode 102, which is also Part 2 of my conversation with comedian Big Rich Brock. In this episode of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast, we dig into the art of comedy and the stories behind the jokes. Big Rich reveals some of the inspirations and real-life experiences that shape his humor and we also explore the creative process, the importance of finding your voice, and the joy of making people laugh. We do all this as we workshop some jokes then get into some on-the-spot comedy. If you want a fun look into the world of stand-up, tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learnig about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! In this 101st episode of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast, I sit down with the hilarious Big Rich Brock. He’s a comedian with a unique journey from pastoring to headlining comedy shows. In this episode, we get into his life in Georgia, his transition from ministry to comedy, and the unexpected overlaps between the two worlds. Big Rich shares his insights on finding your voice in comedy, the importance of connecting with your audience, and the joy of bringing laughter to others. Lots of good stuff here. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! I’m pleased to share this milestone 100th episode of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast! Here, I share 100 transformative tips that will elevate your stand-up game. All 100 tips come from the episodes leading up to this one. I go back over things like how to embrace failure, craft killer jokes, and connect with your audience like a veteran. More importantly, I’ve categorized everything into 10 comedy “Pillars” that I think you’ll find helpful. So, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, I’m certain many of these insights will be beneficial. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s episode #99 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast which means we’re only 1 episode away from 100!!! Back with me today is Tommy Morin. He joins me in Part 2 of our chat to explore the art of turning chaos into comedy gold. We get into the hilariousness of crafting the perfect excuse, the power of a disheveled appearance, and how these can earn you unexpected admiration. We workshop jokes and do some on-the-spot comedy. So, whether you’re a comedian or even just someone who’s ever been late and had to wing it, this episode’s for you. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s episode #98 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast. And, as we inch closer to Episode #100, today, we have a pretty unique guest: “The Manic Hispanic: Pastor, Tommy Morin” on the show. Tommy’s journey is as fascinating as it is inspiring. From childhood impressions to the mob to ministry to navigating the comedy scene after a long hiatus, Tommy shares how humor became his escape and his path back to the stage. Tommy’s done Drybar, Huckabee, and a host of other shows. So, in this one, we dive into his experiences with clean comedy, the importance of understanding show business, and how a renewed sense of purpose can reignite your passion. Whether you’re a comedian or someone looking for a fresh start, you don’t wanna miss this. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s episode #97 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast. Ever wonder how comedians turn mundane news moments into hilarious bits? In today’s episode, Part 2 of my chat with comedian Andy Beningo, we dive right into that process. We talk about how the freshest material often comes from real life, and how a simple idea, like an over-the-hill James Bond or a cat with a vendetta, can generate great jokes. We also do some on-the-spot comedy by riffing on headlines. Along with that, we discuss the importance of stage time, developing your best material, and tips for running jokes multiple times. Join us as we dissect the process, share real examples, and have a blast turning the absurdities of our world on their heads. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! Episode #96 of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast is live. In this one, I chat with the absolutely hilarious Andy Beningo. A Michigan-based comedian, this guy has masterfully conquered all 50 states and performed on cruise ships around the world. Here we dig into his unconventional mindset, get some tips on perseverance, and hear about how his obsession with stats has kept him motivated. We also get into the real challenges of adapting jokes for diverse audiences across the globe, and get the secret to sustaining a 20-year comedy career. We break down his unique approach to writing on the go, navigating social media as a seasoned comic, and the surprising truth about making it big when no one’s heard of you. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn local gigs into a worldwide comedy adventure, Andy’s story may well inspire you. Plus, he drops some unmissable advice for any comedian looking to stand out in a crowded industry. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s episode 95 of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast. In this one, I’m thrilled to welcome back the hilarious Lee Hardin. In this one, we get into the creative process of joke writing, Lee shares a new premise about the quirks of aging and memory lapses, and we try to punch it up. We also chat about the art of crowd work, the challenges of remembering things, and the joy of spontaneous comedy. This episode’s loaded with on-the-spot humor that you don’t wanna miss. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! In this episode of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast, I sit down with the absolutely hilarious Lee Hardin, a fellow comedian from Nashville, Tennessee. We get into Lee’s journey from being a class clown to a touring comedian. We also talk about the comedy scene in Nashville, the golden era of SNL, and the art of joke writing. Lee opens up about his experiences, from performing in nursing homes to headlining theater shows, and the importance of obsession in comedy. We also touch on the challenges of staying fresh and the joy of flipping prank calls on their heads. If there’s one to watch, it’s this one. Tune in!“ESSENTIALS OF COMEDY” COURSE BUNDLE: For a limited time only (through 2/15/26), you can purchase “The Joke Writer’s Lab” course and “The Comedian’s Memory Lab” course as a bundle. Just click on one of the courses below, scroll down, and click the “Add all to cart” button.JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hey, Friends! Episode 93 of The Messed-Up To Set-Ups Podcast is here! In this one, I get into the creative chaos of joke writing with the absolutely hilarious Johnny Watson. We talk about the absurdity of the first left-handed caveman and brainstorm some wild scenarios where prehistoric life meets modern comedy. Johnny shares the origins of his unique joke concepts and some thoughts on how everyday conversations spark comedic gold. After punching up his joke, we do some on-the-spot comedy and explore the art of improvisation. As always, listeners and viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the comedic process. Whether you’re a seasoned comic or just love a good laugh, you won’t wanna miss this one. Tune in!“ESSENTIALS OF COMEDY” COURSE BUNDLE: For a limited time only (through 2/15/26), you can purchase “The Joke Writer’s Lab” course and “The Comedian’s Memory Lab” course as a bundle. Just click on one of the courses below, scroll down, and click the “Add all to cart” button.JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! It’s episode 92 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast. So, join me, comedian Michael Halcomb, as I sit down with fellow comedian Johnny Watson (as seen on SNL!) to dig into his journey from being a military MC to a comedy veteran. We talk about the hilarious story of how a chaotic night in Kona, Hawai’i, kickstarted Johnny’s stand-up career. We also get into his unique approach to improvisation and storytelling. We talk about his method of reading audiences in real time and discuss why starting with clean comedy can open more doors. Plus, Johnny offers insider tips for aspiring comedians on how to jump into stand-up with confidence. Whether you’re a comedy fan or dreaming of your first open mic, this episode is packed with some great insights and laughs. Tune in!“ESSENTIALS OF COMEDY” COURSE BUNDLE: For a limited time only (through 2/15/26), you can purchase “The Joke Writer’s Lab” course and “The Comedian’s Memory Lab” course as a bundle. Just click on one of the courses below, scroll down, and click the “Add all to cart” button.JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! I’m stoked to share Episode #91 of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast with you. In this one, I sit down with Michael Saltz, a New York-based comedian, and we take a dive into jokes. We kick things off with his hilarious tale of getting stuck in a water slide and then we workshop that story and try to punch it up. We also chat about how everyday chaos is comedy gold. Lastly, we have a blast with some live, on-the-spot, joke exercises where we riff on everything from ancient undersea walls to celebrity antics. This episode is super fun and has some great advice. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Never get nervous about blanking on stage again! This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! I’m stoked to share Episode #90 of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast with you. In this episode, I sit down with Michael Saltz, a New York-based nurse, firefighter, and clean comedian. During our chat, we get into how he first got started at a firehouse comedy show, the value of capturing attention quickly, and the challenge of balancing comedy with the busyness of life. We also talk about the importance of honest feedback, embracing vulnerability, and why supporting fellow comedians is essential. This episode is packed with practical advice on what it takes to succeed in comedy. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Never get nervous about blanking on stage again! This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hi, Friends! In episode 89 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast, I sit down with the incredibly talented comedian Jeremi George. We get into faith and comedy and Jeremi shares some stories that range from the absurd to the deeply personal. We workshop a joke about a handicap healing service then make up some jokes right on the spot from random prompts. Along the way, Jeremi’s insights are at times equally hilarious and insightful. Join us for a chat filled with laughter, wisdom, and a few funny-as-crap surprises along the way. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.JOKE MEMORY COURSE: My companion course to “The Joke Writer’s Lab” is now live: “The Comedian’s Memory Lab.” Learn how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method works for 10 jokes or 100, a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE. MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hi Friends! It’s Episode 88 of the Messed-Up To Set-Ups podcast. In this one, I sit down with comedian Jeremi George. As he shares his journey into stand-up comedy, we also discuss the challenges and joys of performing, the importance of supportive relationships, and the personal pain that often fuels comedic material. Jeremi shares some valuable advice for aspiring comedians, especially around networking, and reflects on the business side of it all. Tune in!BREAKING - “THE COMEDIAN’S MEMORY LAB” COURSE: I haven’t even made a post about it here on my site yet, but I wanted to go ahead and share the news that my newest comedy course is now live! It’s called “The Comedian’s Memory Lab” and it contains about an hour-and-a-half worth of material that shows, step by step, how to conceptualize, organize, and memorize your entire comedy set. This method I’ve developed works for 10 jokes or 100. It works for a set that’s 3 minutes of 1 hour. You can get it HERE. (More to come soon!)JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hey, Friends! It’s episode #87 of the Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast. In this one, my guest, comedian Dewayne White and I, pull back the curtain and give you a front row seat into the world of comedy. We explore the absurdity of Civil War reenactments and other peculiar hobbies and discuss the comedic potential of these topics. We crack tons of jokes along the way and share some helpful insights. Tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe

Hello, Friends! Episode 86 of The Messed-Up to Set-Ups podcast is now live. Yayuh! In this one, I sit down with the hilarious Dwayne White, whose story is fascinating and work ethic is inspiring. We get into his incredible journey from military life to the comedy stage, his ambitious quest to perform in all 50 states, and the rewarding experience of teaching comedy to veterans overseas. Dwayne shares his insights on the ups and downs of being a traveling comedian, his unique writing process, and offers some golden advice for anyone looking to break into stand-up. If you’re down for a fun conversation filled with laughter, great stories, and free insight, tune in!JOKE WRITING COURSE: By the way, if you have any interest at all in learning about your persona, how to write some jokes, or doing stand-up comedy, check out my online joke writing course, “The Joke Writer’s Lab,” HERE.MichaelHalcomb.Live is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to MichaelHalcomb.Live at www.michaelhalcomb.live/subscribe