Industry Standard W/ Barry Katz

Bob Saget sits down with legendary comedy manager Barry Katz for a raw, wide-ranging conversation covering Bob's new stand-up special 0 to 60, his early days performing at the Improv and Catch a Rising Star, managing Louis C.K. and landing him opening spots for Jerry Seinfeld, the Larry David guitar act story, losing both sisters to illness, raising $46 million for scleroderma research, directing dark comedy films, Full House, working with Rodney Dangerfield, Garry Shandling, and his advice to young comedians on originality, craft, and doing the work. A must-watch for comedy fans, aspiring stand-ups, and anyone who's ever been through adversity and come out swinging.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Bar

In this wide-ranging podcast interview, comedian, actor, and entertainer Charles Fleischer — best known as the voice of Roger Rabbit — opens up about his career in stand-up comedy, character work, vocal dynamics, and multi-character performance. Fleischer discusses his comedic inspirations, including Jonathan Winters and Groucho Marx, his comedic triangle philosophy, early stand-up experiences at folk clubs and comedy clubs, performing alongside Robin Williams and Richard Pryor, his approach to improv and character voices, representation in Hollywood, his book Out of My Mind, presenting at the Academy Awards, and his enduring passion for entertaining, inspiring, and connecting with audiences through comedy, storytelling, and creative performance.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more &

In this episode, legendary comedian and entertainer Harry Basil shares his incredible journey from a tough childhood in New Jersey to becoming a standout act at the iconic Comedy Store and beyond. He dives into his early inspirations, the hustle of breaking into Hollywood, and the unconventional, high-energy style that set him apart—eventually earning him standing ovations and recognition from comedy legends like Rodney Dangerfield and Robin Williams. Along the way, Harry reveals behind-the-scenes stories of the comedy boom era, his rise through stand-up, acting, and directing, and the key lessons that helped him turn raw ambition into a lasting career in entertainment.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!The Soci

In this episode of the Industry Standard with Barry Katz, Barry Katz sits down with veteran TV writer and showrunner Michael Jamin to discuss screenwriting, comedy writing, television writing, and breaking into the Hollywood entertainment industry. Michael shares the truth about writing great scripts, developing strong writing skills, working in writers’ rooms, building a career in television, and why most writers focus on getting their script seen instead of improving their craft. From his experience writing and producing major TV shows to lessons on storytelling, creativity, and navigating Hollywood as a professional writer, this episode offers valuable insight for screenwriters, comedians, content creators, and anyone trying to succeed in film, television, or the comedy business.Blueprint for Success:https://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment busines

In this AMA episode, Barry answers real questions from comics around the world — covering female comics navigating a boys’ club, international comedians breaking into the U.S. market, door guy vs. agency strategy, social media growth, ego vs. confidence, AI in comedy, and the biggest misconceptions about success.This isn’t about fame — it’s about being undeniable.Knockout sets. Work ethic. Strategy. Late night. Specials. Viral content. Comedy club politics. The grind behind the spotlight.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!The Social Media Blueprint:https://www.theindustryblueprint.com/social-media-blueprintBarry Katz Entertainmenthttps://barrykatz.comConnect with Barryhttps://www.instagram.com/barrykatz/https://

Host and veteran comedy manager Barry Katz sits down with the legendary Gallagher — one of stand-up comedy's most iconic and inventive performers — for a wide-ranging, no-holds-barred conversation. From his early days road-managing Jim Stafford to becoming the top-earning comic of the '80s and '90s, Gallagher reflects on his singular career, his philosophy of comedy, his famous prop bits, his run for Governor of California, and much more. Unpredictable, unfiltered, and endlessly entertaining, this episode is a rare glimpse into the mind of a true original.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!The Social Media Blueprint:https://www.theindustryblueprint.com/social-media-blueprintBarry Katz Entertainmentht

In this episode, Brandon T. Jackson talks about navigating Hollywood, the shift to self-tape auditions , and why artists today have to think like entrepreneurs. From big studio films to building his own projects, he breaks down what it takes to stay relevant, provide for a family, and keep evolving in a business where everyone’s their own studio.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmenthttps://barrykatz.comConnect with Barryhttps://www.instagram.com/barrykatz/https://www.facebook.com/BarryKatzOfficialPage/https://www.tiktok.com/@barry_katzhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/barrykatzbkehttps://x.com/BarryKatz

In this Industry Standard episode, Barry Katz sits down with legendary television executive Paul Telegdy for a rare, inside look at leadership, legacy, and decision-making at the highest levels of entertainment. Paul reflects on stepping into major roles at NBC, what it means to inherit massive franchises like America’s Got Talent, and why leadership is less about control and more about stewardship. From calling icons like Steven Spielberg and Jay Leno on day one to protecting the creative flame for hundreds of employees, this conversation offers hard-earned wisdom on managing power, responsibility, and creative culture in a constantly shifting industry.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainment

In this Ask Me Anything episode, Barry Katz answers real questions from artists and creatives navigating the entertainment business. Drawing on four decades of experience, Barry speaks candidly about resilience, rejection, growth, and what it really takes to build a lasting career—turning setbacks into momentum and surviving, then thriving, in a brutal industry.Blueprint for Success⁠https://barrykatz.com/blueprint⁠Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainment⁠https://barrykatz.com⁠Connect with Barry⁠⁠:INSTAGRAMFACEBOOKTIKTOKLINKEDIN#BarryKatz #TalentManager #Comedy #AskMeAnything

Originally recorded in 2018, this classic Industry Standard episode features Barry Katz in conversation with legendary comedian and Las Vegas headliner Carrot Top. In this throwback interview, Carrot Top opens up about his decades-long career, building one of the most successful residencies in comedy history, and the discipline required to stay relevant year after year. From touring to television to dominating the Vegas stage, this episode offers timeless insight into longevity, reinvention, and what it really takes to survive — and thrive — in stand-up comedy.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmenthttps://barrykatz.comConnect with Barryhttps://instagram.com/barrykatzhttps://facebook.com/Barr

In this Industry Standard episode, Barry Katz sits down with comedian, actor, and writer TJ Miller to talk about comedy, career longevity, and the deeper responsibility of making people laugh. Known for his breakout role on Silicon Valley, scene-stealing performances in blockbuster films like Deadpool and Transformers, and years of stand-up touring, TJ reflects on how his career across television, film, commercials, and live comedy has shaped his perspective on entertainment. He opens up about why he sees comedy as a form of escape for audiences dealing with real-life struggles, and how creating laughter has become both a creative mission and a personal calling.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Enter

<p>In this Industry Standard episode, Barry Katz sits down with stand-up comedian Andy Huggins for a candid conversation about comedy careers, creative momentum, and the moments that unexpectedly change everything. Andy breaks down how a simple Facebook thought turned into a full comedy special, the power of decisive collaborators, and why he’s never chased success the “traditional” way. The conversation also touches on Andy’s breakout Don’t Tell Comedy sets, his appearance on America’s Got Talent, and what he’s learned from letting opportunities come to him instead of forcing them — a refreshingly honest look at timing, talent, and trusting the process in stand-up.</p><p>Blueprint for Success<br><a href="https://barrykatz.com/blueprint">https://barrykatz.com/blueprint</a><br>Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Clic

In this Ask Me Anything episode, Barry answers real questions submitted by artists and creatives navigating the entertainment business. Drawing on four decades of experience representing legends like Dave Chappelle, Wanda Sykes, and Bill Burr, Barry speaks candidly about resilience, rejection, growth, and what it really takes to build a lasting career. From getting “crushed like a bug” to turning setbacks into momentum, this AMA is a raw, motivational deep dive into mindset, career strategy, and surviving — and thriving — in a brutal industry.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmenthttps://barrykatz.comConnect with Barryhttps://instagram.com/barrykatzhttps://facebook.com/BarryKatzOfficialPageh

<p>In this Industry Standard classic episode, filmed in 2019, Barry sits with comedian and actor Andrew Santino (Dave, I’m Dying Up Here, Mixology, This Is Us) Santino traces his path from working on Punk’d with Ashton Kutcher and Jason Goldberg to establishing himself as a stand-up and actor.<br><BR>They cover his early days at The Comedy Store, the rise of podcasts, and how Joe Rogan helped shape the supportive Los Angeles comedy scene, as well as career highlights like recognition from Jim Carrey and Larry David. Santino also reflects on growing alongside peers like Faheem Anwar, Brent Morin, Whitney Cummings, Tom Segura, Bert Kreischer, and Theo Von.<BR><BR>Getting personal, he opens up about his father’s struggles with addiction and prison, his strong single mother and stepdad, and the influence of his grandfather’s humor. From Chicago roots to Hollywood breakthroughs, Santino mixes honesty, heart, and comedy in this revealing conversation.

In this episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, comedian and actor Dustin Ybarra opens up about his career journey — from getting discovered through Stand Up for Diversity to landing roles in We Bought a Zoo, 21 & Over, Kevin Probably Saves the World, and Ghosts. Dustin reflects on the ups and downs of show business, his experiences on The Tonight Show, and what it takes to stand out in auditions. He and Barry also discuss comedy legends and Hollywood figures like Eddie Murphy, Adam Sandler, Jordan Peele, and more. A funny, real, and inspiring look into the grind of comedy and acting.Blueprint for Successhttps://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmenthttps://barrykatz.comConnect with Barryhttps://instagram.com/

In this episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz sits down with comedian and actor Craig Shoemaker for a wide-ranging, hilarious, and deeply personal conversation. Known for his unforgettable “Love Master” character, Craig talks about how that voice and persona grew out of his own awkward teenage years and became a crowd favorite alongside his sharp stand-up and impressions. He and Barry swap stories about working with Dane Cook, Jay Mohr, Whitney Cummings, Bert Kreischer, Carrot Top, Richard Jeni, and more, while digging into the ups and downs of a life in comedy. From early gigs in Philadelphia to headlining across the country, Craig shares the laughter, the struggles, and the resilience that shaped his career and kept audiences coming back for more.The Industry Blueprint(fka Blueprint for Success)TheIndustryBlueprint.comAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click th

Danny Robinson is a talent agent who got his start in the mail room. Before that, he was on the road with his parents as a part of their closing act. Growing up on the road, Danny learned a lot about the entertainment industry. Danny got his start at Ashley Famous, and after several summers and mergers, Danny landed a desk at ICM in the Rock and Roll Department for Chuck Ramsey. Danny has worked with all sorts of Brilliant Minds from Sandler to Steve Martin. In this episode, Barry Katz and Danny Robinson talk about the Industry as two people who work behind the scenes.The Industry Blueprint(fka Blueprint for Success)TheIndustryBlueprint.comAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Watch this episode and more on YouTubeYouTube.com/@BarryKatzEntertainmentConnect with Barr

In this Ask Me Anything episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, Barry dives into practical advice for comedians at every stage of their career. He shares insights on writing and originality, drawing lessons from comedy legends like Dave Chappelle, Jim Jefferies, George Carlin, Wanda Sykes, Louis C.K., and Steven Wright. With personal stories, deep industry experience, and reflections on evolving tools like TikTok and AI, Barry offers a masterclass in building a lasting and authentic comedy career. #StandupComedy #ComedyAdvice #AMApodcast #BarryKatz Blueprint for Success https://barrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience! Barry Katz Entertainment https://barrykatz.com

In this episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, viral YouTube pioneer Ed Bassmaster shares his incredible journey from working retail at an AT&T store to becoming one of the most recognizable character comedians on the internet. He dives deep into the origins of his iconic alter egos and creations like Always Teste, Chip Diamond, Skippy, Tequila, and Mumbles—many inspired by real-life encounters in Philly. Ed reflects on his big breaks with appearances on MADtv, working alongside Keegan-Michael Key and Bobby Lee, and brand deals like his Pine-Sol commercial with the legendary Pine-Sol Lady. He also opens up about growing up without a father, raising his own kids with love, collaborating with his son on viral TikToks, and navigating the highs and lows of social media fame. Subscribe for more impactful interviews https://www.youtube.com/@BarryKatzEntertainment?sub_confirmation_1 Blueprint for Success https://www.blueprint-for-success.com Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager,

In this gripping episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, legendary actor Michael Madsen opens up like never before. From almost missing out on his iconic role as Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs to improvising unforgettable moments on set, Madsen shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from working with Quentin Tarantino, Harvey Keitel, Jennifer Tilly, and many more. He reflects on how Hollywood typecast him into dark, psychopathic roles, discusses the harsh realities of celebrity life, the politics of Hollywood representation, and the personal toll of fame. Madsen also dives into his unexpected start in acting, his passion for poetry, and the unconventional love story with his wife that changed his life. Packed with humor, brutal honesty, and moving reflections, this is a must-watch for fans of film, acting, and the gritty truths behind Hollywood’s glamour. Don’t miss this revealing conversation with one of cinema’s most magnetic—and misunderstood—talents. Movies Discussed: Reservoir Dogs, The Getaway