My First Joke

On this episode of “My First Joke,” host Karim Kanji welcomes Toronto-based comedian John Mostyn for an honest and hilarious conversation about the journey into stand-up comedy. John shares how moving from Glasgow to Canada—and overcoming social anxiety—set him on a path to the stage. He recounts his early days in comedy, the nerves of performing for small crowds, and the gradual transition to making comedy a full-time career.John opens up about performing in some of the most unusual venues imaginable, from sex clubs to pirate boats, and reflects on the differences between city and small-town audiences. He offers advice for new comics about focusing on material before crowd work, and highlights some of Toronto’s top rising comedians: Tracy Hamilton, Fiona O’Brien, Hisham Kelati, Chris Locke, Adam Christie, and Todd Graham.Plus, John talks about his upcoming comedy album and the importance of living life outside of comedy to inspire new material.Follow John Mostyn on Instagram: @jmostyncomedySubscribe to “My First Joke” for more candid interviews with comedians and creatives!

In this episode, comedian Nitish Sakhuja joins us for an open and insightful conversation about his path in stand-up comedy. Nitish reflects on his personal health journey during the pandemic, the challenges and surprises of performing virtual shows, and how he found his comedic voice through years of experience. He shares stories from Toronto’s unique “weed show” scene, discusses the realities of moving to Los Angeles for greater opportunities, and the process of rebuilding his career from the ground up.Nitish also talks about the invaluable support he’s received from comedy legends like Russell Peters and Kenny Robinson, and what it means to be part of a creative community. He offers candid thoughts on success, resilience, and his hopes for the future—whether it’s touring internationally or breaking into TV and film, all while staying dedicated to stand-up.Tune in for an inspiring look at the hustle, heart, and humor behind Nitish’s journey. Follow Nitish on Instagram @nittysak and visit nitishsakhuja.com for more.

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with Toronto comedian Ernie Vicente for an insightful and entertaining conversation about the journey from everyday life to the comedy stage. Ernie shares how a college presentation and a viral wedding video inspired him to pursue stand-up, and reflects on the nerves and excitement of his first open mic experiences.The discussion covers Ernie’s evolution as a comic—from experimenting with one-liners to embracing storytelling, and the ongoing process of finding his comedic voice. Ernie talks about building connections in the comedy scene, memorable moments like meeting Russell Peters and performing in the Yukon, and the realities of both great and challenging gigs.Ernie also introduces his latest project, “Pinoys to Men,” a comedy-music show touring across Canada with Big Norm. Throughout the episode, listeners will hear candid stories, practical insights, and plenty of laughs about the creative process and the resilience it takes to succeed in comedy.Tune in for an inspiring look at persistence, adaptation, and the joy of making people laugh.

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Nick Reynoldson for a candid and entertaining look at Nick’s two-decade journey in stand-up comedy. Nick shares how he stumbled into comedy through Humber’s writing and performance program, discovering his passion during a three-minute set at Yuk Yuk's. He reflects on the thrill of immediate audience feedback and the creative freedom that drew him to stand-up.Nick recounts his early days running a monthly show, the support he received from friends and fellow comics, and his memorable first big break performing on Kenny Robinson’s legendary Nubian show—a pivotal platform for comics of colour in Toronto. He describes the high-pressure environment of the show, where comics could be booed off stage, and discusses Kenny’s lasting impact on the Canadian comedy scene.The conversation explores Nick’s career highlights, including TV appearances, Just For Laughs, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, as well as his experiences performing in the U.S. Nick and Karim discuss the current comedy boom, the rise of crowd work and audience participation, and how social media is changing the landscape. Nick shares his approach to adapting material for different cities, his favorite places to perform, and some of his toughest gigs—including a disastrous show in Cranbrook, B.C.Nick also talks about performing virtual shows during the pandemic and gives a shoutout to up-and-coming comics Hershawn Arora, Peter Saran, and Jesse Singh. The episode wraps up with Nick sharing where fans can find him online and plans for future performances, including a possible appearance at Scarborough's Got Jokes Open Mic.Visit Nick online at https://www.nickreynoldson.com/

Our final guest this season is comedia Himansu Patel. Himansu recounted his two-decade journey in comedy, starting from promoting parties in Montreal to performing at notable venues like the Broadway Comedy Club in New York City. He discussed the evolution of his comedic style and the importance of audience connection, particularly in diverse cities like Toronto. Himansu humorously reflected on his experiences in Japan and shared a comedic anecdote from a past job, showcasing his commitment to developing his craft. 

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Thea Rainford to explore her journey into stand-up and the stories behind her earliest jokes—a perfect fit for Karim’s upcoming season centered on comedians' “first jokes.”Thea opens up about discovering comedy during a difficult breakup in the pandemic, when she began writing material about her ex and her beloved cat. She reflects on her first-ever showcase at Tallboys, where she delivered a hilariously sharp roast of her ex, and shares the emotional moment her father proudly declared her a “real comedian.”Throughout the conversation, Thea discusses the ongoing process of shaping her comedic voice—through workshops, disciplined writing, and continuous stage time. With humor, honesty, and shared excitement, this episode highlights Thea’s evolution as a performer.Follow Thea on Instagram here -> https://www.instagram.com/thea_rain3/

Comedian Clif Knight is this week's guest on My First Joke.Clif began by sharing his journey into stand-up comedy, detailing how he discovered the open mic scene in Toronto after moving from Mississauga. He described his initial performance as challenging, emphasizing the significance of preparation, which prompted him to create a personalized joke book for refining his material. Over time, Clif's comedic style has transitioned from straightforward jokes to more intricate storytelling and comparisons. He expressed enthusiasm for his upcoming tour and his goal of producing a comedy album, highlighting his commitment to continuous improvement in the dynamic world of stand-up comedy.

Comedian Keesha Brownie joins host Karim Kanji for a lively and insightful conversation about her journey into stand-up comedy. Keesha shares how she transitioned from dreams of singing and acting to discovering her passion for comedy, the importance of confidence on stage, and the lessons learned from performing in both clubs and theaters across Canada and beyond. She opens up about finding her comedic voice, blending storytelling with impressions and musical parodies, and the ongoing challenge of self-critique as an artist.Listeners will enjoy behind-the-scenes stories from Keesha’s early days, her thoughts on the evolving comedy scene, and practical wisdom for anyone considering a creative path—at any age. The episode wraps with Keesha’s signature humor and encouragement, plus details on where to find her online and catch her next show.Tune in for laughs, inspiration, and a candid look at what it takes to make it in comedy, Toronto-style.

In this episode, host Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Hershawn Arora for an in-depth conversation about the craft and community of stand-up comedy. Hershawn opens up about his journey from his early days on stage to achieving a career milestone — recording for Just for Laughs Originals in 2023.The two dive into what it really takes to build a career in comedy, from the importance of peer support to the art of hosting a successful show. Hershawn breaks down the unique role of a comedy host — setting the tone, reading the crowd, and creating a space where every performer can shine. He also shares valuable insights on storytelling, crowd work, and adapting to live audiences.This candid and insightful conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at comedy as both an art and a community, with practical advice for anyone stepping onto the stage — whether as a comic, host, or fan of the craft.

In this episode Allie detailed her comedic journey, which reignited after a breakup, leading her to pursue stand-up seriously. She recounted her first successful joke and its viral impact, emphasizing the importance of creativity and personal voice in comedy. Allie also discussed her debut album, "Trophy Wife," and her ongoing efforts to develop new material while navigating the challenges of the comedy scene.

Welcome to the show, Zul Gulamhusein!This episode centered around Zul Gulamhusein's journey into stand-up comedy. Zul shared his passion for comedy, driven by a desire to bring joy and reflect on his upbringing. He contrasted the preparation for stand-up performances with emceeing events, highlighting the unique challenges of engaging an audience without additional support.Zul recounted his early experiences in comedy, including a memorable first performance that left him exhilarated. He emphasized the importance of audience feedback in refining his material and discussed the subjective nature of comedy, noting the need for research to tailor performances to different audiences. Check out Zul on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/theminorinconveniencesguy/

Today's guest is Husein Panju!Host Karim Kanji and Husein discuss Husein's journey from a legal career to stand-up comedy, highlighting his lifelong passion for humour and the skills he developed through competitive debating and public speaking. Husein shared insights into his early experiences in comedy, including the challenges he faced and the importance of personal storytelling in crafting jokes. He recounted receiving positive feedback from peers, which affirmed his comedic style and encouraged his growth over the past year and a half. The conversation also touched on the intersection of comedy and podcasting, with both Husein and Karim emphasizing the significance of being present and responsive in conversations, as well as the benefits of podcasting for enhancing comedic abilities.Check Husein on his website: https://www.highcomedicvalue.com/

Today's episode features my conversation with comedian, BONG GUN KIM and his journey into stand-up comedy, highlighting his transition from a traditional career path in Korea to pursuing his passion in Canada. KIM shared his experiences with language barriers in comedy, noting that performing in English allows him greater freedom in his comedic expression. He reflected on his first open mic performance at Humber College, where he found success with a brief joke, and emphasized the importance of collaboration and authenticity in the comedy industry. KIM also delved into the complexities of organizing a comedy tour, discussing the financial challenges and the significance of social media in attracting audiences. He stressed the need for comedians to develop a unique identity and tour concept while balancing artistic goals with financial stability. The conversation touched on the influence of various comedians on KIM's style and his desire to address sensitive topics in his work. Catch up with BONG GUN KIM on his website: ⁠https://bonggunkim.com/⁠

Welcome to Season Two of My First Joke.Today's guest is comedian Rasha Elfeky.The discussion centered on Rasha's journey into stand-up comedy, beginning with her unexpected entry into the field three and a half years ago at an open mic in San Francisco. Initially skeptical of the performances, Rasha was encouraged by a friend to take the stage, where she delivered a joke that resonated with the audience, igniting her passion for comedy.Rasha elaborated on her development as a comedian, highlighting her comfort with crowd work and her approach to refining her skills through online tutorials. She expressed admiration for various comedians, particularly Nitesh, for their authenticity and ability to tackle challenging topics. Rasha emphasized the importance of finding one's unique voice in comedy and the necessity of supporting fellow comedians rather than succumbing to jealousy. Her recent opportunity to open for Zainab Johnson marked a significant moment in her career, showcasing her determination and passion for the craft.Mentorship has played a crucial role in Rasha's growth, particularly her relationship with Chinedu Unaka, who has provided valuable industry insights despite the geographical distance. Rasha recounted how his guidance helped her secure a performance opportunity, reinforcing her belief in the importance of earned success. Follow Rasha on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatgirlrasha/

The final episode of Season One centered around Keith Bender's journey in comedy and his experiences as a performer. Keith reflected on his early influences, including his upbringing as the class clown and the encouragement he received from a co-worker to pursue comedy. He shared the challenges he faced in tough venues, emphasizing the importance of delivery and confidence in eliciting laughter.In this episode, Keith recounted a specific joke that resonated with audiences, highlighting the difference between written material and live performance. He also discussed his preparation for shows, particularly on cruise ships, where he tests and refines his material with diverse audiences.Host Karim Kanji describes a troubling encounter at Wal-Mart where an Asian man yelled at a Muslim woman, prompting him to reflect on the irony of two individuals from different backgrounds confronting each other about their place in society.Keith Bender recounted a significant experience in his comedy career where he was upgraded from emcee to feature performer for a two-man show with D.L. Hughley. He emphasized the importance of learning from performances and contests, highlighting how recording himself helped him identify areas for improvement. Bender also expressed a desire to perform in larger venues and on television.

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with stand-up comedian Monty Scott to explore his journey through the world of comedy—starting with their shared roots in Scarborough. Though Monty now lives in East York, his heart still beats in Scarborough, where his creative sensibilities were shaped and where his show 60 Seconds from Scarborough was born (and may yet return).From gritty open mics to oddball venues like karate dojos and Montreal basements, Monty shares the wild ride of building a comedy career. He reflects on starting late in the game, finding his voice, and performing alongside longtime friend and fellow comic Dave Merheje.Karim praises comedians as real-life superheroes, and Monty doesn’t disagree—especially after quitting his day job to go all-in on comedy. He talks about the early struggles of amateur night at Yuk Yuk’s, his evolution as a performer, and the importance of embracing silence on stage.This episode also shines a light on under-recognized Canadian comedic talent, with shoutouts to Nick Reynoldson and others grinding it out north of the border.🎤 Topics Covered:Growing up near Scarborough and its creative influenceThe origins and future of 60 Seconds from ScarboroughPerforming in unusual venuesEarly stand-up experiences and bombing with styleFinding comedic voice and pacingLife after quitting the 9-to-5Shoutouts to Canada’s underrated comedy scene📌 Mentioned in the Episode:Dave MerhejeYuk Yuk’s Amateur NightNick Reynoldson🗓️ Don’t miss this candid, funny, and insightful conversation about finding your path and your punchlines.Follow Monty Scott on his website: https://www.montyscott.com/

The discussion centered on Freddy Jan's journey into stand-up comedy, beginning with his early interest sparked by a classmate's suggestion in kindergarten. Freddy recounted his first performance at an amateur night organized by Yuk Yuks, where he delivered a joke about his messy university living situation. Despite initial nerves and witnessing challenging performances from others, he connected with the audience, which boosted his confidence. Over the past five to six years, Freddy has honed his skills, particularly in delivering darker material, while navigating the complexities of audience preferences.Freddy shared his evolving aspirations in comedy, from securing his first booked show to aiming for headlining opportunities. A notable experience was his performance in Japan, where he successfully engaged a diverse audience, highlighting the importance of connections made in Toronto. As he looks to the future, Freddy expressed excitement and uncertainty about performing in major U.S. cities. The conversation concluded with Freddy reflecting on the importance of enjoying the journey in comedy, emphasizing that the experiences along the way can be more fulfilling than the successes themselves.Freddy Jan's Journey to Stand-Up ComedyFreddy Jan recounts how a casual comment from a classmate in kindergarten sparked his interest in comedy, although he didn't pursue it seriously until later. After sending an email to Yuk Yuks, he received a last-minute opportunity to perform, despite having minimal knowledge of stand-up. His first joke about messy university living resonated with the audience, particularly a group of drunk moms.Freddy Jan's Stand-Up Comedy ExperienceFreddy Jan recounted his experience at an amateur comedy night, highlighting the presence of both new and experienced comedians. He described how the host, recently fired from the Space Channel, bombed his performance, which contributed to the overall tough atmosphere. Freddy felt anxious as he prepared to perform but ultimately succeeded with his material, leading him to believe he had a talent for stand-up. However, he acknowledged that success in comedy can be unpredictable, as he later bombed during his second set.Reflections on Comedy JourneyFreddy Jan shares insights about his comedy journey, noting that while his style has remained consistent, his execution has improved over the years. He emphasizes the importance of balancing dark humor with audience preferences, particularly when performing for families. Reflections on Comedy Goals and AchievementsFreddy Jan reflected on his comedy career, noting how his goals have shifted over time, starting from wanting to perform at his first booked show to aiming for headlining opportunities. He recounted a significant moment from two years ago when he performed in Tokyo and Osaka, feeling proud of his achievements and the connections he made in Toronto. Freddy expressed that his next goal is to perform in the United States, although he acknowledges the challenges that come with it.Visit Freddy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freddyjan17/

Rebecca reflected on her journey in stand-up comedy, detailing her initial struggles and the evolution of her comedic style over 13 to 14 years. She shared memorable experiences, including opening for Fortune Feimster and meeting Arnold Schwarzenegger, which highlighted significant milestones in her career. The discussion also touched on the importance of confidence in performances, with both Karim and Rebecca agreeing that a strong opening line is crucial for engaging the audience. They concluded by discussing Rebecca's online presence and her various podcast projects, with Karim encouraging listeners to subscribe and engage with their content.Rebecca's Journey into Stand-Up ComedyRebecca recounted her beginnings in stand-up comedy, initially participating in an improv troupe at Carleton University. After realizing she needed a creative outlet, she took a job at Absolute Comedy in Ottawa, which allowed her to learn from experienced comedians. Her first performance in Montreal was challenging yet exhilarating, leading her to recognize her passion for comedy.Early Stage Jokes and Performance TipsRebecca recounted her first experience on stage, highlighting the pressure she felt and the advice from a friend to focus on her opening line. She mentioned her first joke about ribbed condoms, which she found amusing yet never performed again. Reflections on Comedy Journey with RebeccaIn a conversation between Karim Kanji and Rebecca, they reflect on her 13 to 14 years in comedy, highlighting her evolution from uncertainty to confidence on stage. Rebecca notes that her style has become more authentic and aggressive, focusing on what she wants to express rather than what the audience expects. She also mentions the shifting nature of personal goals in her career.Encounter with Arnold SchwarzeneggerRebecca recounts a memorable encounter with Arnold Schwarzenegger backstage, expressing her awe at meeting someone she admires. She was initially nervous and focused on her performance, unaware of who Fortune was referring to when she mentioned Arnold before the show. After performing, Arnold recognized Rebecca and praised her humor, leading to a photo opportunity that she considers a highlight.My First Joke with Rebecca ReadsRebecca expressed her thrill about landing a significant gig, noting that she initially thought she had missed the chance due to her busy schedule. Karim asked how these opportunities come about, to which Rebecca explained that producers often scout talent online. Despite not submitting a video, she was still approached for the role, highlighting the unpredictability of such opportunities.

Welcome to My First Joke with host Karim Kanji. Today's guest is comedian, Kevin Christopher. The discussion centered on comedian Kevin Christopher's journey into stand-up comedy, highlighting his initial experiences and the evolution of his comedic style. Kevin shared that his interest in comedy was sparked by a class project that led him to storytelling, influenced by figures like Eddie Murphy. His first performance occurred at a black comedy show, where he faced a challenging audience but received positive feedback, marking the beginning of his career. The dialogue also explored the concept of success in comedy, with Kevin identifying milestones such as headlining a comedy club and being part of a club roster. Both he and Karim Kanji reflected on the changing landscape of comedy, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, which have shifted perceptions of success. They praised fellow comedians for their fresh material and discussed the varying approaches to content creation, contrasting the styles of comedians like Josh Johnson and Jerry Seinfeld. Kevin noted the challenges of consistently producing new material while maintaining audience engagement. Additionally, the conversation touched on the role of humor in holding power accountable, with Kevin advocating for a focus on "punching up" rather than "punching down." They discussed the need for originality in comedy, especially regarding topics that have been overused. Follow Kevin online at https://www.instagram.com/ogkevinchris

Mark DeBonis is a Canadian comedian known for his stand-up performances and contributions to the comedy scene. He has achieved significant recognition in his career, including winning The Great Canadian Laugh Off and a Canadian Comedy Award. DeBonis has performed at major events like Just For Laughs and appeared on platforms such as CBC and the Comedy Network.In addition to live performances, Mark DeBonis released a comedy album titled Minutiae in 2020, further cementing his reputation as a talented writer and performer.Follow Mark on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/markdebonis

Sandra Battaglini is a Toronto-based stand-up comic who has been performing since around 2001. She began her comedy journey after taking improv classes at Second City, where she and some classmates decided to try stand-up. Her first performance was at the Laugh Resort club in Toronto, followed by a more successful set at Yuk Yuks.Battaglini's comedy style evolved from storytelling to incorporating more structured jokes, often drawing from personal experiences and family stories, particularly about her father. She also studied clown in 2002-2003, which influenced her performance style.She has expressed views on the challenges Canadian comedians face in the industry, particularly regarding access to the American market, and has been involved in lobbying for comedy for about ten years.Battaglini can be followed on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sandrabattaglini

Garrett Jamieson is a Canadian comedian, writer, and actor known for his dark, absurdist style and storytelling. Jamieson's comedy has been featured on SiriusXM, CBC Comedy, MTV Canada, and Comedy Network. He has toured across Canada and has performed at clubs and theaters, including NXNE and JFL 42.You can follow Garrett on Instagram @GJPartyHugs. Garrett's website is https://www.garrettjamieson.com/.

Ali Hassan is a multi-talented Canadian entertainer who has made significant contributions to comedy, radio, television, and literature. Hassan began his stand-up journey in Montreal, eventually moving to Toronto in 2011 to further his career. He has performed at prestigious comedy festivals, including Just For Laughs in Montreal and Toronto, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. His solo show "Muslim Interrupted" has toured extensively across Canada and internationally.Hassan is best known as the host of CBC Radio's popular stand-up comedy show "Laugh Out Loud," which reaches over a million listeners on CBC Radio. He has also been the host of CBC's "Canada Reads" and frequently guest-hosts other CBC Radio programs such as "Q" and "The Next Chapter".Hassan's acting career spans both television and film. In 2024, Hassan received two Canadian Screen Award nominations for his performances in "Sort Of" and "Run the Burbs"1. His comedic memoir, "Is There Bacon in Heaven?", was published by Simon & Schuster in 2022.Hassan remains an active presence in Canadian media, balancing his roles as a comedian, actor, author, and broadcaster.

Adrienne Fish is a prominent Canadian stand-up comedian based in Toronto, Ontario. Known for her energetic and engaging performances, she has made significant contributions to the comedy scene in Canada. Adrienne has recorded four nationally aired TV tapings and appeared on shows like "Roast Battle Canada" (Season 2) and "The Beaverton Digital". She is also a regular on SiriusXM comedy channels.Adrienne has received several accolades, including being named COCA Comedian of the Year in 2019, recognizing her as the top comedian for Canadian colleges and universities. Additionally, she was nominated by NOW Magazine as Toronto's Best Female Stand-up in 2015. Beyond her live performances, Adrienne frequently participates in major comedy festivals such as the Winnipeg Comedy Festival and the Toronto Comedy Festival.Check out her website! https://www.adriennefish.com/

Carlos Yance is my next guest on My First Joke. Carlos is a comedian based in Scarborough. He can be found at comedy clubs and shows across the city. He is very funny and is always repping Scarborough. Follow Carlos on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlos_from_scarborough/

Dave Merheje is a talented Canadian stand-up comedian and actor, celebrated for his engaging and relatable comedic style. Born on July 21, 1980, in Windsor, Ontario, to a Lebanese family, he has carved out a niche in the comedy scene with his unique blend of storytelling and observational humor.Merheje gained recognition for his roles in the popular Canadian sitcom Mr. D and the Hulu series Ramy, where he portrays Ahmed. His 2019 comedy album, Good Friend Bad Grammar, won the Juno Award for Comedy Album of the Year, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in Canadian comedy.In 2023, Merheje co-starred alongside Daisy Ridley in the film Sometimes I Think About Dying, directed by Rachel Lambert. With a growing body of work and a loyal fan base, Dave Merheje continues to make waves in both stand-up comedy and acting, showcasing his versatility and comedic talent.Follow Dave on his Instagram account to find out where he's performing next!

Michi, also known as Seriously Michi, is a Toronto-based Latina comedian and producer. With infectious charisma and hilarious jokes, Michi has become a rising star in Toronto comedy. Michi has performed in English and Spanish in Ontario's top comedy clubs.You can find her in Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seriouslymichi/

Welcome to the first episode of my new podcast, My First Joke. Today's guest is my friend and one of the funniest people in Toronto, Kris Siddiqi.Kris is a multi-talented Canadian entertainer based in Toronto. He is an award-winning comedian, actor, writer, and producer.His recent credits include roles in "I Woke Up a Vampire," "Titan," "Molly's Game," "The Boys," "Improbable Valentine," and "Baroness Von Sketch Show".He created the multi-award-winning miniseries, BIT PLAYAShttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg826l_mkDHoYsn-3ezKiNQ , which won two Canadian Screen Awards for Best Writing and Best Series.Kris is involved in the podcast "Dwarven Moss" as the sound editor, sound designer, and main character. This podcast won Best Leisure Podcast at the Canadian Podcast Awards.Podcast -https://thesonarnetwork.com/dwarven-moss/episodes/

Every great laugh starts with one brave joke. Join host Karim Kanji on My First Joke, where comedians share the hilarious, awkward, and inspiring stories behind their first time on stage. From bombing to bringing the house down, we dig into the journeys of today’s funniest people. Whether you’re a comedy superfan or just need a good laugh, this podcast delivers punchlines, backstage stories, and plenty of laughs along the way. Tune in and find out where the funny begins!