Why Stand-Up and Sitcom Writing Are NOT the Same

Dave Cohen is a British comedian, author, and multi-award-winning comedy writer with a career spanning over four decades in UK television, radio, and live performance. He is best known as the lead lyricist for the hit BBC children’s series Horrible Histories, which earned him eight BAFTA Awards. Here is an overview of what we discussed: …

10 Years as a Working-Class Comedian at the Fringe

Welcome to The Comedian’s Paradise! In this episode, we sit down with the critically acclaimed, award-winning UK stand-up comedian Tom Mayhew (BBC Radio 4’s Benefit Scum, Soho Theatre). Known for his fiercely funny, authentic working-class perspective and hit Edinburgh Fringe solo shows (I, Tom Mayhew). Here is an overview of what we discussed: [01:05] Never …

How to Book and Tour Comedy Shows Across Europe

In this episode, we sit down with international comedian Fedor Ikelaar to pull back the curtain on the booming European English-speaking comedy circuit. We dive deep into how the continental scene operates, the unique challenges of performing for multi-national crowds, and what it takes to build a career as a touring road comic in Europe. …

18 Years of Teaching and 10 years of being a Northern Irish comedian

In this episode, former teacher and comedian Andy Gleeks explains why he left education after 18 years, discussing the intense pressures of the modern profession and his transition into stand-up comedy. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from the UK comedy scene, wild open mic nights, and the realities of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe. The conversation …

Running Good egg comedy shows in the central belt

How do you build a thriving comedy circuit in the heart of Scotland? In this episode of The Comedians Paradise, we’re joined by five-time Scottish Comedian of the Year finalist, Ross Leslie.As the founder of Good Egg Comedy, Ross has become a key figure in the Scottish “Central Belt” scene. We dive into the “maverick” …

The Art of the struggle

In this episode of The Comedians Paradise, Marvin McCarthy is joined by a true industry titan: the legendary manager, producer, and ‘God of Comedy’, Barry Katz.As the man who helped launch the careers of icons like Dave Chappelle, Louis C.K., and Whitney Cummings, Barry offers a masterclass in the realities of show business. Titled ‘The …

Why a Top Talent Agent Left to Help Unrepresented Comedians

In this episode of The Comedian’s Paradise, Marvin McCarthy and Jack Wheeler are joined by industry veteran Kate Lennon. As the first employee of UTC Artist Management, Kate helped navigate the careers of household names and worked on some of the biggest shows in the UK, including the historic Black British Takeover at the O2. …

Sharon Mannion: Stand-up Comedian and Booker of Ireland’s Oldest Comedy Club

In this episode of The Comedian’s Paradise, Marvin McCarthy sits down with the “Architect of Destiny” herself, Sharon Mannion. As a powerhouse of the Irish entertainment industry, Sharon wears many hats: she is an award-winning writer, a star of hit sitcoms like Bridget & Eamon (RTÉ/Hulu), and a veteran of the Dublin Comedy Improv scene. …

Founder of Buzz comedy John Agraman Marshall

Join host Marvin McCarthy on The Comedians Paradise for an exclusive sit-down with a true legend of the British comedy circuit—John Marshall, aka Agraman the Human Anagram. As the founder of the iconic Buzz Comedy Club in Manchester, John has spent over 30 years as the ultimate “kingmaker,” giving first gigs to some of the …