The comedians paradise

Marvin McCarthy
  • 5.0 (10)
  • STAND-UP COMEDY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join comedian and promoter, Marvin McCarthy each Sunday at 8pm UK time as he interviews the mavericks of the comedy world.

  1. Laughter and Legacy: Navigating Fame, Race, and Truth in Comedy with Dane Baptiste

    3 DAYS AGO

    Laughter and Legacy: Navigating Fame, Race, and Truth in Comedy with Dane Baptiste

    Welcome to the interview podcast providing an inside scoop on comedy scenes across the globe. We are dedicated to speaking with the true mavericks of the comedy world. In this episode, join acclaimed comedian Dane Baptiste for an unfiltered look at his journey, from his humble beginnings to conquering the Edinburgh Fringe. Dane dives deep into the harsh realities of the comedy industry, the hurdles of creating a Black sitcom, and the nuances of racism in the UK versus the USA. From navigating "cancel culture" to the raw truth about fame and ego, Baptiste explores why comedy remains the ultimate tool for explaining culture and speaking truth to power. Episode Timestamps: [[01:28]] My humble beginnings in comedy [[07:04]] [[04:46]] TikTok culture and its impact on society [[07:00]] [[10:11]] The challenges of starting a comedy journey [[13:53]] [[14:10]] Creating a Black sitcom on a micro-budget [[19:59]] [[19:59]] Conquering the Edinburgh Fringe with limited resources [[25:32]] [[25:32]] Ego and the comedy industry [[27:05]] [[27:09]] The truth about comedy promoters and critics [[29:19]] [[35:12]] Validation and navigating "BS" in the comedy space [[40:11]] [[41:37]] Comparing racism in the UK and the USA [[46:31]] [[47:00]] Cheap race jokes and the "blame game" [[01:01:20]] [[01:02:37]] The power of comedy [[01:04:05]] [[01:08:00]] Why most people don’t want to tell the truth to rock the boat [[01:15:00]] [[01:15:37]] My role as an observational comedian [[01:17:17]] [[01:17:27]] Life advice, cancellation, and the rarity of being heard [[01:20:00]] [[01:22:00]] Survival advice for being "cancelled" [[01:30:00]] Connect with Dane Baptiste: Official Website: danebaptiste.co.uk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaneBaptisteComedy Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DaneBaptiste Podcast: https://shorturl.at/SWnXe Coming Soon: Citizen Dane Follow & Support This Podcast: YouTube: https://bit.ly/41LWDAqSpotify: spoti.fi Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU, Apple podcasts: https://apple.co/3LEkr3E Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise #danebaptiste #comedypodcast #cancelculture #standupcomedy #britishcomedy #edinburghfringe #blackbritishcomedy #comedyindustry #socialcommentary #ukvsusa #thecomediansparadise #podcastinterview

    1h 31m
  2. Donatas Kveselys: The Lithuanian Comedian Who Conquered the UK Gong Shows

    1 FEB

    Donatas Kveselys: The Lithuanian Comedian Who Conquered the UK Gong Shows

    An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Join hosts Marvin McCarthy and Jack Wheeler as they interview Donatas Kveselys, the 6ft 7in Lithuanian comedian making waves in Sweden, the european circuit, Japan and conquering all UK gong shows. Based in Gothenburg, Sweden, the "Lithuanian Giant" has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting rising stars in stand-up comedy. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[01:08]] The London Comedy Scene vs Everywhere Else How Donatas became a comedian, the success of Victor Patrascan, and the unique pressure of London gong shows. Why the London circuit is so overcrowded compared to the rest of the world. [[08:16]] [[08:26]] Freedom to Fail: Europe vs The UK Comparing the supportive atmosphere of the European comedy scene to the high-stakes, "no mistakes" culture of the UK. [[10:56]] [[25:32]] The Truth About Bringer Shows Navigating the controversial UK bringer show model and its impact on new acts. [[29:40]] [[26:50]] Is All Stage Time Good Stage Time? Analysing whether simply being on stage is always beneficial for your comedy craft. [[28:10]] [[28:00]] The London Grind & Material Fatigue Why London comedians repeat their sets until they are tired of their own material. [[31:00]] [[32:16]] The Challenges of Hosting & MCing Why hosting is a massive challenge and how it fundamentally changes a comedian's skillset. [[37:33]] [[33:39]] Crowd Work Spotlight: Siobhan Dodd Discussing the art of interaction and the great crowd work of Siobhan Dodd. [[37:33]] [[37:33]] Gothenburg vs Austin, Texas What makes the Swedish comedy scene so strong when compared to international hubs like Austin. [[40:27]] [[40:27]] Essential Eastern European Comedians The top comics from Eastern Europe that you should be following right now. [[44:13]] [[47:12]] The Financial Cost of Comedy & Japan Tours Headlining in Japan and the reality of the financial investment required to be a professional comic. [[50:12]] [[53:10]] Changing the Game & Shout-outs Highlighting the people currently shaking up the industry and deserving recognition. [[01:01:48]] [[54:40]] What Comedy Doesn't Need Right Now A critique of current industry trends and what we should move away from. [[57:29]] If you would like to know more on Jack Wheeler you can reach him on Instagram at pirate2908 and Facebook at Jack Wheeler, if you would like to know more on Donatas, you can reach on him on his Instagram at donataskveselys and his website at https://www.donataskveselys.com/. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #swedishstandup #lithuaniancomedian #standupcomedian

    1h 2m
  3. Chad Damiani: From Wrestling Rings to Clown Comedy and Questioning Authority

    25 JAN

    Chad Damiani: From Wrestling Rings to Clown Comedy and Questioning Authority

    How does a WCW announcer and WGA screenwriter become a world-class clown? Chad Damiani joins Marvin McCarthy on The Comedians Paradise to break down the link between pro wrestling and physical comedy, the brilliance of Natalie Palamides, and why every comedian should question authority. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[07:35]] Clowning vs Wrestling: Examining the surprising parallels between these two art forms.[[14:58]] [[08:35]] Gatekeeping in Comedy: Challenging the barriers to entry in the alternative scene. [[15:10]] [[15:11]] The Wrestler as Clown: Which pro-wrestlers best embody the clown archetype? [[18:07]] [[21:59]] Conservatory Training: Navigating the world of formal, high-level clown education.[[26:16]] [[24:10]] The Gaulier Critique: Discussing the potential negatives of the Philippe Gaulier experience. [[25:20]] [[27:12]] Personal Weaknesses: How to turn your human flaws into comedic superpowers.[[31:43]] [[30:23]] Success Rates: Analysing the professional impact of Gaulier-style training. [[31:23]] [[31:43]] Beyond Gaulier: Barnaby King’s influence and why Natalie Palamides is the next great clown icon. [[35:12]] [[39:38]] Combat Training: Learning the physical mechanics of how to fight on stage.[[40:10]] [[40:30]] Wrestling in Real Life: The drawbacks of using professional wrestling moves in actual fights.[[41:14]] [[50:26]] Artistic Integrity: Why I prioritise what matters to me over seeking external approval.[[55:24]] [[55:30]] Natalie Palamides: A deep dive into her creative process and iconic show structures.[[01:00:00]] [[01:08:48]] Questioning Authority: The clown’s philosophical duty to challenge the status quo. [[01:10:00]] [[01:10:00]] Clowning for Stand-ups: How traditional comedians can use physical theatre to improve their sets. [[01:19:00]] If you would like to know more about Chad, you can go on his instagram at thechaddamiani, go to his podcast:https://shorturl.at/ZdDwH, watch his standup clown show:https://shorturl.at/Ks1hW and you could also follow him on his LInktree:https://linktr.ee/chad.damiani .You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #chaddamiani #standupandclown #modernclown #clownpodcast #clowningworldwide

    1h 33m
  4. Simon Rakoff: 40 Years of Canadian Comedy

    18 JAN

    Simon Rakoff: 40 Years of Canadian Comedy

    An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Our guest today is Simon Rakoff, Simon Rakoff is a veteran Canadian stand-up comedian with a career spanning over 40 years. Known for his sharp wit, observational humour, and storytelling, Simon has performed across Canada, the USA, and the UK, earning acclaim at major comedy festivals such as Just For Laughs, Halifax Ha!, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[00:00]] A brief overview of Canadian comedy, including insights into working with different comedy promoters. [[10:16]] [[10:16]] Keeping my skills sharp and how Canadian comedy differs from American comedy; legalising cannabis; should drugs be legalised? [[21:04]] [[21:04]] The importance of knowing French; comparisons between Toronto and Montreal; how Toronto is perceived across Canada. [[24:17]] [[24:35]] Adapting my stand-up set for different audiences. [[27:27]] [[27:27]] Many talented comedians travel from Canada to perform in the USA and UK; how Canadian humour stands apart. [[31:25]] [[52:37]] The “woke versus edge-lords” debate in comedy; insights from Anthony Jeselnik. [[55:16]] [[56:25]] Navigating the line between true comedians and aspiring performers.[[57:45]] [[58:00]] How many real comics are there and how many wannabe comics; people who aren’t original. [[01:03:00]] [[01:12:00]] – I don’t have enough time for people I care about, never mind those I don’t. [[01:16:24]] To learn more about Simon, you can listen to his album Surrounded by Idiots on Spotify at https://shorturl.at/MnAqu or visit his official website at https://www.simonrakoff.com/.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian #canadiancomedy

    1h 16m
  5. Spending 30 Years in the Australian Comedy Circuit

    11 JAN

    Spending 30 Years in the Australian Comedy Circuit

    An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. Joining us today is Darren Sanders, a veteran of the Australian comedy circuit with over 30 years of stage and screen experience. Known for his sharp observational wit and relaxed storytelling, Darren has hosted five seasons of his own late-night program, The Darren Sanders Show, and appeared in hits like Underbelly and A Place To Call Home. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[02:07]] Coming from Adelaide and gigging for 33 years [[05:06]] [[05:06]] Australia has been influenced from a wide range of comedy styles , some of my comedy influences, my idea of building a set. [[08:56]] [[13:52]] My most memorable bomb [[17:37]] [[17:48]] How are audiences in Australia different from each other , my experiences of being on cruises [[22:00]] [[22:00]] My experiences of cruises [[29:31]] [[29:38]] Why I don’t do comedy festivals [[31:20]] [[33:21]] How my skin has become like a rhino over the years , since running a comedy club and dodgy business practices [[39:13]] [[43:22]] Why I don't bother with the circuit and focus on corporate gigs and function [[47:03]] [[51:25]] Is Russell Crowe a Kiwi or is he an Aussie?[[52:13]] [[01:03:37]] What you need to prepare for when running a gig [[01:10:00]] If you would like to know more on Darren Sanders you can go on his Linktree at https://linktr.ee/darrensanders. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #standupcomedian #australiancomedy

    1h 12m
  6. Andy Huggins: America's Got Talent & Don't Tell Comedy Star

    4 JAN

    Andy Huggins: America's Got Talent & Don't Tell Comedy Star

    An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We talk to Andy Huggins, a veteran stand-up comedian and "King of One-Liners". A beloved figure in the comedy world for over 45 years, he gained national recognition on Season 13 of America's Got Talent (AGT), where he surprised judges by revealing he started his career alongside Howie Mandel decades ago. Huggins' timeless humor and unique perspective on aging have made his performances with Don't Tell Comedy go viral, captivating millions across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. A genuine Houston comedy icon, Huggins was one of the original Texas Outlaw Comics in the 1980s, alongside legends like Bill Hicks and Sam Kinison. He is known for his deadpan delivery and sharp, relatable jokes about daily life, naps, and growing older, proving that laughter truly is a timeless art form. Huggins recently released his first full-length special at age 73, available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV and Prime Video. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[00:41]] How has Don’t tell comedy helped me? [[02:35]] [[06:49]] What do I need to perform my best? [[13:09 ]] [[13:09]] Do I believe in cancel culture and is comedy in good shape?[[17:31]] [[18:07]] Get so good they can’t reject you and why I don’t do cruises. [[27:40]] [[27:40]] How financial freedom get rids of crap gigs, the relationship between being a performer and how being a single man helps him. [[33:56]] If you would like to know more on Andy, you can go to his Linktree at https://linktr.ee/andyhuggins. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #standupcomedian #donttellcomedy #americasgottalent

    34 min
  7. From Crip gang member and 23 Years in Prison to Professional comic Stacey Taylor

    28/12/2025

    From Crip gang member and 23 Years in Prison to Professional comic Stacey Taylor

    An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. We speak to former crip gang member, prisoner of 23 years and now professional comedian, Stacey Taylor. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [01:00] Grew up being funny; there were no outlets for comedy in the ghetto, so I went into drugs and joined the Crips[03:41] [05:28] It’s one-sided; that’s why people get into gangs, and why cults are always present.[08:56] [13:33] How The Secret by Rhonda Byrne saved my life.[16:37] [19:16] You don’t have the option to avoid people you don’t like; how The Secret has helped me, having the right people around, and getting out of jail.[22:36] [22:36] My journey to my first gig and becoming a professional comedian, receiving a stipend, and seeing ex-fellow convicts at a comedy gig.[29:12] [35:13] Difference between me and my brothers; how comedy has always been a part of my life, changing the narrative.[39:56] [41:18] America is all about the money; people make more of a situation than they need to, people want to be victims, and I am shocked at where I am today.[47:29] [51:38] Comedy is watered down. [57:45] [59:52] My advice on comedy and life.[01:05:43] If you would like to know more on Stacey Taylor, you can reach him on his Instagram at stacey_taylor_comedian or follow this link:https://tinyurl.com/4rjdv5mm. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise.

    1h 6m
  8. Making the comedy world a better place

    21/12/2025

    Making the comedy world a better place

    An interview podcast giving the inside scoop of what happens in comedy scenes across the globe and dedicated to speaking to the mavericks in the comedy world. In todays episode we talk about two ladies Alice Frick and Sophie Quirk, two individuals who are seeking to make the UK comedy scene are much fairer and safer place for comedians: [[01:07]] Brief intro on our main guests [[07:09]] [[07:09]] Comedians are very divided and standup isn’t very organised, its good, but you may not get paid [[11:22]] [[13:32]] How to make acts feel assured [[20:34]] [[39:12 ]] False accusations and other crimes [[47:42]] [[50:44]] Comedy has every walk of life, but everything is about respect [[56:13]] [[01:04:00]] The purpose of streaming platforms [[01:09:00]] If you would like to know more about Alice you can find out about her safety first podcast here:https://podcasts.apple.com/es/podcast/safety-first-comediennes-greenroomtalk/id1766739204, https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anti-Self-Help-Book-Alice-Frick/dp/1399914499, her website is https://laughinglabia.weebly.com/. If you would like to know more on how Sophie and Alice are looking to make comedy safer, look on https://linktr.ee/SaferBackstage. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian

    1h 28m
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Join comedian and promoter, Marvin McCarthy each Sunday at 8pm UK time as he interviews the mavericks of the comedy world.

Information

  • Creator
    Marvin McCarthy
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Marvin McCarthy
  • Show Website
    The comedians paradise