Unbridled and Entitled with Lori Rothman and Russell Flicker

In this hilarious and insightful episode, Russ and Lori sit down with comedians Kim Burns and Mina Hartong to talk about the grind of stand-up comedy, the art of writing jokes, the importance of stage presence, and the balance between creativity, careers, and family life.From navigating late-night shows to teaching comedy and even writing for TV, Kim and Mina share how they’ve built careers in stand-up while inspiring the next generation of comics. Whether you’re a comedy fan, an aspiring comic, or just love unfiltered conversations, this episode is packed with laughs and wisdom.⭐ Topics include:Life as a working comedian in New York and beyondWriting vs. performing: how comics develop their best materialOvercoming stage fright and “bombing” with confidenceComedy communities that lift each other upBalancing careers, family, and creative pursuitsIntroduction & Late-Night Energy vs. Early Nights (00:00)Parenting, Proms, and the Comedy of Everyday Life (03:12)Juggling Comedy with Family and Career Commitments (06:18)Guest Introduction: Kim Burns Joins the Show (08:49)Hosting Comedy Shows & Keeping Material Fresh (10:50)The Writing Process: Finding Material Everywhere (12:46)Teaching Comedy & The Importance of Brevity (15:06)Comfort, Confidence, and Stage Presence (20:08)Kim Burns’ Journey: From Decorating to Stand-Up (21:09)Lessons from Tough Crowds & Awkward Gigs (24:36)Kim’s New TV Project “Relentless” (31:06)Guest Introduction: Mina Hartong Joins the Show (34:58)From Teaching to Comedy: Building a Community (36:22)Stage Time, Nerves, and the Power of Reps (41:05)Building a Supportive Comedy Network (46:53)Smart Humor, Audience Attention, and Control (49:37)Wrapping Up with Mina: The Comedy Community (50:34)👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to Unbridled and Unfiltered for more candid conversations with comedians, creators, and culture shapers.🎧 Available on Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

In this episode of Unbridled and Unfiltered, hosts Lori Rothman and Russ Flicker dive into the chaotic stock market, trade wars, and how financial uncertainty trickles into everyday life — with plenty of laughs along the way. Special guest comedian and social media influencer Rebecca Berman joins to share her journey from real estate to comedy, the art of handling hecklers, and the beauty of food-driven humor. This episode is packed with real-world lessons, honest advice, and hilarious stories for anyone looking to break into the world of stand-up comedy.---(01:00) – Financial Panic Hits HomeLori shares a funny story about explaining market chaos to her daughter.(02:00) – Laughing Through Financial CrisesComic relief as Lori and Russ discuss rich friends, jewelry shopping, and handling stock market whiplash.(04:00) – Russ’s Tariff Comedy SetRuss shares a standout joke about tariffs, Vietnam, and unexpected economics.(05:00) – Boba Tea, Gelatinous Balls, and Plastic JunkLori rants about unnecessary imports like boba tea and dangerous dog toys.(09:00) – Introducing Rebecca BermanComedian and influencer Rebecca Berman joins the conversation with her signature wit.(11:00) – Rebecca’s Comedy Origin StoryHow a monologue class with Jeffrey Tambor unexpectedly launched Rebecca’s stand-up career.(13:00) – Food, Comedy, and Social Media StardomRebecca explains how her passion for food and restaurants turned into a social media brand.(16:00) – First-Time Stand-Up ExperiencesRebecca recounts the nerves and lessons from her first-ever stand-up set.(18:00) – Managing Stage FrightThe group shares real strategies for calming pre-show nerves — from vodka to visualization.(22:00) – Handling Hecklers and Tough CrowdsRebecca talks about staying composed during crowd work and unexpected audience reactions.(28:00) – Knowing Your AudienceThe hosts discuss how audience demographics can affect a set — and how to adapt quickly.(30:00) – Final Thoughts + Closing LaughsTechnical glitches, sincere thank-yous, and a strong message for aspiring comedians.

On this episode, Russ and Lori step outside their comfort zones and talk about their Open Mic experience. They also chat about putting together a travel team for comedy and the art of creating relatable material for any audience. Plus, the dynamic comedy duo welcomes the Georgia Peach in the Big Apple, comedian Cyndy Cecil to discuss her journey into comedy, the importance of community, and the challenges of crafting material. They explore the dynamics of the comedy scene, the role of life experiences in shaping comedic voices, and the aspirations for future performances. Chapters(03:03) Experiencing Open Mic Comedy(05:52) The Art of Stand-Up Comedy(09:11) Family Ties and Comedy(12:08) Navigating the Comedy Scene(14:49) The Challenges of Relatable Comedy(18:06) Humor in Current Events(22:01) Introduction to Comedy and Networking(24:43) Cyndy Cecil's Journey into Comedy(27:39) Balancing Production and Performance(30:22) Inspiration and Influences in Comedy(33:28) Finding Your Voice and Life Experiences(36:11) The Challenges of Aging and Comedy(39:14) Conclusion and Future Endeavors

In this episode of Unbridled and Unfiltered, hosts Russ and Laurie explore the dynamics of friendships, personal growth, and the comedic journey of their guests, Ben Rosenfeld ⁠and ⁠Michelle Slonim⁠. On today's episode, we discuss the roles individuals play in friend groups, the importance of supportive relationships, and the challenges of balancing family life with a career in comedy. The conversation touches on personal experiences, emotional connections, and the humorous aspects of navigating life as a couple in the entertainment industry.Chapters(02:48) Roles in Friend Groups(06:00) Spa Experiences and Personal Boundaries(08:56) Supportive Relationships and Weekend Getaways(12:08) Midlife Reflections and New Experiences(14:56) Comedy and Emotional Connections(18:00) Meet the Guests: Ben and Michelle(20:50) The Comedy Journey as a Couple(23:54) Navigating Family and Comedy(27:01) The Dynamics of Being Married to a Comic

SummaryIn this episode Russ and Lori discuss their journey into the world of comedy, sharing personal anecdotes and insights about the challenges and joys of stand-up. They explore the importance of relatability in humor, the dynamics of performing in front of different audiences, and the preparation that goes into crafting a successful set. The episode features guest Andrew Rich, who shares his experiences starting out in comedy and the nuances of connecting with diverse audiences.Make sure to catch Andrew at his next comedy show. For the most up to date information, follow Andrew on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/andrew_rich_comedianChapters00:53 The Journey into Comedy02:48 Finding Humor in Life Experiences06:11 The Backyard Comedy Shows08:53 Inspiration and Relatability in Comedy11:51 Introducing Andrew Rich12:47 Andrew's Comedy Beginnings14:51 The Challenges of Stand-Up Comedy17:56 Adapting to Different Audiences20:59 Family and Comedy23:50 The Art of Preparation27:02 Navigating Different Demographics30:03 Closing Thoughts and Future Shows

SummaryIn this episode of Unbridled and Entitled, hosts Russ Flicker and Lori Rothman discuss the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season, the challenges of winter blues, and the impact of aging on relationships. They share humorous anecdotes about parenting teenagers, the importance of friendships in midlife, and the need for social activities to maintain a vibrant lifestyle. The conversation also touches on the future of family relationships and the care of aging parents.Chapters00:00 Holiday Plans and Family Dynamics05:59 Looking Ahead: Future Family Interactions06:15 Embracing Winter: A Seasonal Perspective13:14 The Humor in Aging and Relationships20:18 Navigating Parenthood and Friendships

SummaryIn this lively conversation, hosts Russ and Lori discuss the recent election, the humor that arises from it, and the unexpected escape of monkeys from a lab. They delve into their experiences with comedy writing sessions, exploring vulnerability and creativity, and share their thoughts on Thanksgiving gatherings and family dynamics. The conversation is filled with laughter, insights, and reflections on the importance of humor in navigating life's challenges.Chapters00:00 Election Reflections and Humor07:23 The Comedy of Everyday Life15:33 Navigating Comedy and Vulnerability18:23 Thanksgiving and Family Dynamics24:52 Holiday Shopping and Family Connections

In this engaging conversation, hosts Lori Rothman and Russ Flicker explore the joys and challenges of the fall season, from sports excitement to Halloween costume dilemmas. They discuss the evolution of family gatherings during Thanksgiving, the importance of midlife hobbies, and the complexities of navigating family politics. The conversation also touches on the Menendez brothers' case and its societal implications, concluding with light-hearted reflections on concerts and future plans.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Fall: Embracing the Season02:55 Sports Frenzy: The Excitement of Fall06:00 Halloween Evolution: Costumes and Parental Guidance09:13 Midlife Hobbies: Finding Joy in New Activities12:08 Thanksgiving Challenges: Hosting and Dietary Restrictions14:52 Navigating Family Politics: Keeping the Peace17:46 Reflections on Parenting: The Changing Dynamics21:14 The Menendez Brothers: A Case Revisited24:02 Closing Thoughts: Concerts and Future Plans

On this episode of Unbridled and Entitled, hosts Russ Flicker and Lori Rothman discuss their perspectives on art, their experiences with art, and the dynamics of art appreciation. They also connect with an art expert, Lauren Bender, to gain insights into the world of art. The conversation covers topics such as personal art preferences, art shopping, gallery experiences, and the challenges of art appreciation. Find out more about Lauren and her business here: https://www.laurenlbenderfineart.com/ Takeaways Art appreciation is subjective and can vary widely from person to person. The process of art shopping and gallery experiences can be both enjoyable and challenging. Understanding the dynamics of art and gaining insights from art experts can enhance one's appreciation for art. Personal experiences and preferences play a significant role in shaping one's relationship with art. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reintroduction 02:04 Exploring Personal Perspectives on Art 05:34 Challenges of Art Appreciation and Gallery Experiences 10:23 Art Shopping and the Dynamics of Art Purchase 13:03 Interview with Lauren Bender

Are you someone with a gapping hole in our heart and soul that only a pet can fill? Has your furry friend taken ownership of your marital bed? Are you the kind of person that waits until AFTER you've signed adoption papers to add another four-legged member to your family to tell you husband or wife? If any of these apply to you, then you're going to love today's episode of the Unbridled and Entitled Podcast with Russ and Lori. On today's show, our hosts talk about their relationships with their dogs and how those bounds have affected their lives and their families for the better. Russ and Lori also talk Billy Joel, Tik Tok and you don't want to miss our faithful co-host break down what a "Thirsty Hampster" is! So do yourself a favor, grab your favorite furry friend and tune in to today's episode.

On this episode of the Unbridled and Entitled Podcast, we discuss social media and our kids. But don't worry, we're not discussing the longterm effects of social media on brain development or how the next generation or even life on earth is going to be impacted. Our focus is far more narrow and far more important. We're going to tackle how social media used by our kids and younger people in general affects US. Also, in "Are they Serious?" we talk about the royal family drama, freeway signs over in the great state of Wisconsin and Lori has a bone to pick with Russ about his Pickleball skills.

Are you the super-fun spontaneous type that goes on trips last minute and the only thing you care about if there’s a mattress and sunset? Or, are you the kind of traveler that is concerned about a room’s air conditioning, or if you’re seated in the right spot on your flight and leading up to your stay, you research the wine list at your destination?  On this episode of Unbridled and Entitled, Lori and Russ talk about traveling with family and with friends. And In our new segment titled "Are they serious?!" Lori and Russ talk about the "Guybrator," partying on weekdays (who does that anymore?!) and chat about the film that has all of the internet talking -- Saltburn.

Have you been called "cool" with a healthy helping of irony attached to it? Are you still popping in your "Sweatin' to the Oldies" DVD for your workouts? Then I have a podcast for you! On this episode of Unbridled and Entitled, Lori and Russ talk about unions, strikes and they ask the question on every man's mind: "should I get electroshock therapy for ... my testicles?" Lori and Russ also break down the fitness in your 50's by welcoming local legend and Barry Bootcamp instuctor Rhonda Hunt.

On the inaugural episode of Unbridled and Entitled, Lori and Russ talk about Coach Prime, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, plus they ask the ever important question: what's the deal with all these vaccines? Lori and Russ also break down the Parent-Teen relationship as their kids navigate the college application process.