The Comedy Castle Podcast

This special episode of The Comedy Castle podcast has Tom and producer Joel Fragomeni interview comedian Mike Young about his twelve years on the road as the opener of the late comedy legend, Bob Saget. As a Michigander, Mike tells of Bob’s love of Detroit and The Comedy Castle, Bob’s unusual path to the starring role on Full House, and why no small town Subway was safe from Bob on the road. Mike also shares the details of Bob’s tribute show – coming soon to Netflix! – with Jim Carrey, Chris Rock, John Mayer and more. It’s a wonderful talk, hat shows how big the heart of Bob Saget was, and how much he’ll be missed by everyone. Also, Mike talks his upcoming made-in-Michigan movie, “Stealing Jokes” and the hilarious way he stays so humble. If that’s not enough, this week’s headliner, Quinn Patterson, can be heard on an archive episode here, and tix are at the link below.

This week’s headliner, Robert Mac is the epitome of a comic’s comic.  A top notch joke writer with a delivery and style that is at the same time familiar yet totally unique.  Think Steven Wright meets David Letterman meets the funny guy in the office that everyone likes.  His new album “More On Robert Mac” is a great companion piece to his first record “Know More Robert Mac.”  Make sure to check out both. Available on all platforms. Tickets for Robert’s shows this weekend can be found at the link below.

The return of one of our favorite guests, Peabody and Emmy award winning comic, actor, playwright, producer, and writer, Paul Mecurio!  From his long association with the Daly Show and Late Night With Stephen Colbert, to his off Broadway production; “Permission to Speak”, to his star studded podcast; “Inside Out with Paul Mecurio“, Paul has done it all.  Fascinating stories from a quarter of a century in show business including how he landed an interview with Paul McCartney.  Make sure to catch him later this year in the new Megan Fox feature, “Johnny and Clyde”. Tickets for Paul’s shows can be found at the link below.

The Lovemaster Returns!  This week’s headliner, Craig Shoemaker has had an incredible career in show business.  Film, television, writing, the live stage, he’s done it all.  Fascinating stories covering almost four decades, it’s a treat to hear him spin his tales.  Craig also hosts a fascinating podcast that features deep dives into comedy, life, and the importance of laughter, check out “Enlighten Up” available on all platforms.  Local comic Alex Rawlik also drops by to talk a little comedy and discuss the show he runs at Trixie’s Bar in Hamtramck, MI.  Some great tips on running a DIY show for all of you aspiring comics! Tix for Craig’s shows can be found at the link below.

Three interviews on this week’s show! Tonya Murray has been a staple on the Michigan Comedy Scene for the last decade.  She recently opened for Chris Porter at the Castle and did a fantastic job.  Her most recent release is “It Was My Birthday” and it is available on all streaming platforms. Jani Tillery drops by to discuss her path from Detroit to successful DC lawyer and accomplished stand up.  She’s a fantastic up and come in the comedy world and it was great catching up with her. We round out this week’s triple header with Andrew Yang, a relative newcomer to the Michigan scene who’s already accomplishing big things.  While building and refining his own act he has been able to turn one of the Midwest’s most legendary rock clubs into a stand-up hot spot.  A great behind the scenes look at how to build your own show.

Mike Geeter is a relentless ball of comedic positive energy.  He’s been a staple on the Michigan Comedy Scene for the last decade and has expanded to national credits including a coveted spot on Kevin Hart’s “Hart of the City” and “Laughs” on the Fox Network.  One of the best examples of good things happening to good people that we can think of. Mike headlines The Comedy Castle the weekend of April 21 – 23. Tix can be found at the link below.

Keith Alberstadt is a super accomplished stand up comic.  Multiple late night appearances including David Letterman and Stephen Colbert as well as being a freelance writer for Weekend Update on Saturday Night Live.  His album “Walk It Off” is an under-the-radar classic that is a must listen for any comedy fan.  We also are joined by Keith’s opener this weekend, Tim Finkel.  Tim is a staple on the Detroit comedy scene and also the teacher for our Stand Up for Teens class that is open for registration.  Some real interesting information on this one! Tix for this week’s shows with Keith and Tim can be found at the link below.

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Visit comedycastle.com for tickets and more information

We ARE having a good time with Dusty Slay!  Dusty returns to the Comedy Castle and this podcast to talk about the new season of Netflix’s “The Stand Ups” and the origins of his now famous catch phrase.  He also shares some insights into how his recent Ted Talk came together and the fine line you have to walk between being a stand up and being a motivational speaker.  Truly a Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle favorite, Dusty is one of the top touring comics out there right now and it is a pleasure listening to him talk comedy. Tix for Dusty’s shows can be found at the link below.

Don Friesen is a master story teller who taps in to the absurdity of the human experience in an easy going and hilarious style.  His most recent full special, “Ask Your Mother” is a must watch.  We are also joined by Don’s opener, Ron Rigby.  Ron is the likable, relatable, elder statesmen of Detroit Comedy and we welcome him on his first visit to the Comedy Castle Podcast. Catch Don and Ron this weekend – tix at the link below.

This week we pay tribute to, and remember a true Detroit original and Comedy Castle favorite, “The Amazing Jonathan.” Jonathan passed away on February 22nd after a long illness.  We are joined by Mark Ridley himself as he offers some memories of Jonathan as he began his career as well as one of Jonathan’s closest friends and famous hypnotist, Kevin Lepine. Plus, hear a replay of Tom’s interview with Johnathan from 2019. Please enjoy this longer, and special edition of Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle Podcast.