The Backline

The Sonar Network

Canadian Comedy Award winners Rob Norman and Adam Cawley discuss weekly improv-based topics based on a theme.

  1. MAR 10

    Is it a Scam?

    This week, Rob and Adam discuss shady improv classes, incompetent improv teachers, and what to do when you’re dissatisfied with your experience in the classroom. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    42 min

  2. MAR 3

    A Surprising Way to Teach Improv

    This week Rob and Adam discuss different methods of teaching improv, what's the best way for a teacher to get their ideas across, and how context changes a teacher's lesson plan. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    26 min

  3. FEB 23

    Is this the End of the Second City e.t.c?

    This week, Rob and Adam unpack a major shake-up at The Second City. Starting January 22, 2026, the historic e.t.c. Stage shifts from scripted sketch to Improv Supernova, a fully improvised show—the first change in its 43-year history. They explore why the move makes sense now and what it means for the future of Second City, improv, and sketch comedy. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    1h 3m

  4. FEB 17

    Shame, Scene Hogs, and Everything Else

    Rob and Adam answer three questions from a single listener.  This week they discuss shame, greedy scene partners, and how to strengthen your comedic muscles offstage. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    1h 3m

  5. FEB 12

    To Care or Not to Care

    This week Rob and Adam discuss the delicate balance between telling jokes and caring about the reality of the scene, when it makes sense to care in your scene, and how to start investing in the reality more. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    53 min

  6. FEB 5

    Fresh Start

    We all make mistakes—but how do we recover when they happen onstage? Is there a magic phrase an improviser can use to win the audience back? This week, Rob and Adam discuss the best strategies for recovering after bombing a scene. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    44 min

  7. 2025-12-23

    The Backline Holiday Special 2025

    This week Rob and Adam reflect on the year and give spread thanks to improv communities across the world: Ann Arbor, Chris the Cameraman, mentorship from Greg Yates, and never giving up on the dream of a Magnet House team. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    36 min

  8. 2025-12-11

    Bulldozer

    In this episode, Rob and Adam dive into the challenges of handling heavy offers, navigating information overload, and figuring out how to deal with unexpected “bulldozers” that can derail an improv scene. They break down practical strategies, share examples, and explore how to keep scenes playful, collaborative, and fun. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

    52 min
See All (48)

4.9
out of 5
81 Ratings

About

Canadian Comedy Award winners Rob Norman and Adam Cawley discuss weekly improv-based topics based on a theme.

Information

  • Creator
    The Sonar Network
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    The Backline

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