54 - Dulcé Sloan, comedian, NBC TV personality

Your host at his fattest with NBC's new star, Dulcé Sloan

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The rest of the world, i.e. non-Art Howard listeners, may not have heard of Dulcé Sloan yet, but she has a talent holding contract with NBC, so she'll be on their TV sets soon. She's also appeared on ESPN's Riggle's Picks and ABC's Resurrection.

Sloan takes the time to chat with Art for a follow-up to her 2012 interview, and details the amazing things that have happened to her in the past year: coming in second at the Laughing Skull Comedy Festival, which paved the way for an appearance at Montreal's Just for Laughs, and now, opportunities with NBC. 67 minutes.

Art's comments: "I knew Dulcé had the goods when I first saw her four years ago! Whether you seethe with sour grapes when someone does better than you, or if you know how to be genuinely happy for the success of others, this show is for you. Download it today, because when she gets a Top Five TV show, I'm jacking the price of this one up to $39.99!"

Dulcé Sloan links:

• Dulcé Sloan.com
• Estraya jewelry
• NBC Stands Up

Share this episode with the buttons below! REVIEW in iTunes! We're dyin' over here!

52 - Eric Von Haessler, host, "The Von Haessler Doctrine"

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For over 25 years, Eric Von Haessler has had a conversation with America from behind a radio microphone. For much of that time, he ridiculed everyone and everything in his path to hilarious effect. In recent years, he's shared his more serious and well-considered thoughts on everything from politics, to science, to NASCAR, to his favorite band, Drivin' n' Cryin'. These days he can be heard on his podcast, "The Show," and weekly WSB radio show, "The Von Haessler Doctrine."

Eric sits down with Art and recounts the history of his top-rated former morning show, The Regular Guys, which was the toast of the L.A. FM talk radio scene in the mid-1990's at KLSX, and was a consistent ratings winner for its 16 year run in Atlanta on 96 Rock and Rock 100.5. He also shares the experiences and lessons of his rough-and-tumble youth, such as visiting his father in prison, dropping out of high school, living with heroin users, and ultimately finding a way up and out through comedy. 2 hours 22 minutes.

Art's comments: "It's crazy to think in December of 1997 I was on an egg crate mattress in L.A. trying to tune in this cool new show I'd read about, and in 2015 one of the hosts is in my house. If you're a Regular Guys fan, this is a fantastic oral history. Eric has told these stories on the air, but this is the first time they've been told as one narrative. And if you make it through my opening comments, you'll feel like you just sat through all 16 years of the Regular Guys' run in Atlanta.

"By the way, Larry Wachs was always nice and even encouraging to me personally, except that time he blasted me on his blog, which I found merely hysterical."

Eric Von Haessler links:

• The Von Haessler Doctrine (Sun. 1-3 p.m. on WSB)
• The Show podcast and Doctrine archive
• Regular Guys archive
• BONUS: Scarred But Smarter, Von Haessler movie about Drivin' n' Cryin'

51 - Vinny Bucci, comedian

Booch in 2014, looking much like he did in 2015

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Booch is back!

Vinny Bucci returns to talk about his past year in Atlanta show business. Most notably Art and Booch discuss the last day at Rock 100.5 of Larry Wachs, the original Regular Guy. It's also known as "The Day the Other 50% of the Laughter Died" (Regular Guys co-host Eric Von Haessler was let go the year prior).

Vinny also tells us about the independent films and a comedy TV pilot he's been featured in.

Also in the mix are the campaign of Donald Trump, transgenders and political correctness in comedy. 92 minutes - don't be scared.

Art's comments: "Down a couple of energy drinks before you listen to this one! Vinny's got a load of energy and stories to tell, so be ready to keep up!"

 

Relevant links:

• DSSTVStation.com
• Booch & Shap YouTube series
• Art's blog

BEST OF HOWARD: Dulcé Sloan, comedian

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Yes, I've been very lame about putting a new show together! FOUR MONTHS? Even Johnny Carson never took that much time off!

However, editing is about to begin on a new episode with the one and only Vinny Bucci!

In the meantime, let me attach myself to the coattails of a true star in the making. You may remember Dulcé Sloan from very early on in our show, back in 2012. Since then Dulcé got a coveted spot in the Montreal Just for Laughs festival. In 2015 that's even bigger than a shot on The Tonight Show. And it's paid off, because she's now taking meetings in Hollywood! Yes!

Check out our 2012 interview (the best I had done up until that point, I thought), and remember when you see her on your TV or local movie screen, you heard of her here first!

Dulcé Sloan links:
Profile at Rooftop Comedy.com
Original videos, including "Sh*t Angry Black Women Say"

42 - Joe Toplyn, author; former writer/producer for Leno, Letterman

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Four-time Emmy winner Joe Toplyn joins Art. Toplyn has been a writer for Late Night with David Letterman, head writer and producer for The Late Show with David Letterman, and co-head writer and producer for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has now authored a book called Comedy Writing for Late-Night TV.

The comedy writing legend candidly answers questions such as:

• What was it like creating revolutionary TV in the early days of Late Night with David Letterman?
• Did the "GE Handshake" bit really end Letterman's chances of getting The Tonight Show?
• What famous Late Night  bit nearly suffocated a fellow writer?
• How did Jay Leno turn the tables to become the new king of late night?
• Is the late night talk show obsolete in the Internet age?

Mr. Toplyn also discusses his whirlwind months as head writer for the short-lived but infamous The Chevy Chase Show, and gives a few tips on how YOU can write funny! 1 hr. 24 mins.

Art's comments: "I hope there's a section in Mr. Toplyn's book about how to ask a question without lots of stammering. I need to read it. You should buy it, too, because this guy let me talk his ear off for two hours. In the end I think the key takeaway from this show is: Carbon dioxide is heavier than air. Now, won't you please enjoy a hot towel?"

Joe Toplyn links:

• Comedy Writing for Late-Night TV  on Amazon
• Joe Toplyn.com
• Toplyn's résumé on IMDB.com
• The PIT class sign up

Relevant video links:

• GE Handshake
• Larry "Bud" Melman and hot towels
• Letterman talks about Cycle dog food on Tonight Show
• Suit of Alka-Seltzer

40 - Vinny Bucci, comedian and Onchi, space punk band

Vinny Bucci in 2014, looking very similar to 2015

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Show number 40 is our longest show ever! It's literally too much show!

Rock 100.5/Atlanta's Vinny Bucci returns. He talks about the series of independent film roles he's had in the past year, which includes being directed by former Martin cast member Tommy Ford. He also candidly discusses the dismissal of Eric Von Haessler from the Regular Guys morning show.

Next, ATL-based punk band Onchi (pronounced with a long "O;" own-chi ) discusses how they came together to create a space punk band with synth bass and sci-fi-inspired lyrics. Controversial changes at the largest college radio station in America, Georgia State University's Album 88, are also mused over. Four Onchi tunes are featured: "EYEz," "Tonight We Ride," "Class War !" and "Black Nougat." 1 hour 45 minutes.

Art's comments: "I thought combining a comedian and band would make for a more interesting show. It resulted in the longest show yet! This will be great for a long walk or morning commute.

"Eric Von Haessler's exit and the sudden changes in the Regular Guys show have been of interest to all Atlanta radio fans. I was surprised Booch knew as much as he did and discussed everything openly. He's acquired a pretty impressive film resume, too, in just the past couple of years.

"As for Onchi, I've been addicted to their Soundcloud page for about a month now. My interview with them kind of reminds me of the clip of Tommy Smothers interviewing Pete Townshend, though. (I'm Tommy Smothers in that analogy.)"

Links:

• Vinny Bucci's podcast, "The Boochcast"
• Regular Guys morning show
• Onchi on Soundcloud
• Onchi Facebook page
• Onchi on Bandcamp
• Art's blog

If you like this longer show, be sure to let everyone know using the tools below!

39 - Chet Wild, writer, podcaster, comedian

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Chet Wild has only been in the comedy game for five years, but in that time he's made extraordinary career strides. In his native upstate New York he was often MC at Buffalo comedy clubs, and became a frequent fill-in co-host on a legendary Rochester morning radio show, all while earning a Master's degree. Now in Los Angeles, he's trained in improv and sketch writing with top comedy troupes and performs before bona fide stars in clubs around L.A. He may currently best be known as co-host of The Dunk Tank podcast with former American Idol host, Brian Dunkleman.

Art catches up with Chet while the comic is in Atlanta for the Laughing Skull Comedy Festival. The interview takes place at the luxurious W Hotel in Midtown.

Then, stay tuned to find out why this episode was the most expensive to produce yet! 47 minutes.

Art's comments: "This is definitely one of our best shows to date. As a Holiday Inn Express/Toyota Carolla kind of guy I felt a bit intimidated by the W and the line of Lexuses and Porsches in the driveway, but had a blast with Chet Wild. To say this guy will be a big success may be stating the obvious. Also, stick around for a tale from my George Costanza-ish existence."

Chet Wild links:

• The Dunk Tank Podcast
• Chet Wild official site
• YouTube channel

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36 - Evan Kessler, L.A. standup comic

Evan J. Kessler, known by TMZ as "J-Kess"

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"A New York comic now doing it in L.A." That's how Evan Kessler was first described to Art.

In this interview, Evan sets the record straight that he actually began doing standup in California. Kessler talks about what it's like to begin a career in standup in the show business mecca of Los Angeles, and his brushes with star comics like Maria Bamford and Emo Philips. He also gives insight into his day job, working as a writer and production assistant on various reality shows. Along the way he also talks about the very beginnings of his career back in New York, writing for the National Lampoon Web site and working on various VH-1 "I Love..." shows. 69 minutes.

Art's comments: "I think it's a lot of people's dream to step onto a stage in Hollywood and try to make it as a comedian. Evan Kessler is actually living it. While the rest of us are creeping down the interstate to our cubicle farms, this guy is hitting the clubs and making his dream come true. For that alone he deserves for you to listen to his story.

"Not to mention that he later tweeted he was holding back vomit throughout this interview. That's another reason to listen."

Evan Kessler links:
His Twitter feed
YouTube channel
Evan Kessler.com

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26 - Mike Haun, comedian

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Voted "Funniest Person in Atlanta" by radio station Dave FM in 2008, and "Funniest Person in the Southeast" in 2009, Mike Haun made a big impact on the Southeastern U.S. comedy scene shortly after beginning his career. Now a feature act with headliners like Richard Lewis and Emo Philips, he draws praise from veteran headliners and is urged to try his luck in New York and L.A. He sits down with Art at Jerry Farber's Side Door comedy club to discuss how losing a job as a computer programmer inspired him to try standup, how he developed his unique stage persona, and what the immediate future holds.

But first, Art clears up that Atlanta is not Los Angeles or New York (believe it or not, there are some in the Atlanta creative community who are confused on this), and presents evidence Rush Limbaugh may be cracking under election season pressure in "Rush Limbaugh Unleashed." 53 minutes.

Art's comments: "Michael Haun makes me think of great comics of the `80's like Bob Goldthwait, Pee Wee Herman and Brother Theodore, who weren't just guys telling jokes, but fully realized characters. It's a refreshing change from guys in beards and faded jeans telling dick jokes.

"I just hope my opening monologue isn't too long, too much of a downer, and makes sense."

If you enjoy this episode, feel free to share it on Facebook, Twitter, etc., with the tools at the bottom of the post. Thank you!

Michael Haun links:
Mike Haun Comedy.com

Related link:
"The State of Atlanta's Expanding Comedy Union" from Creative Loafing

25 - Chase Mitchell, comedy writer

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Chase Mitchell could be described as a New York comedy writer, but with a twist - he lives in Atlanta. Despite his location, he's on the elite "Fax List" of writers approved to submit jokes to Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update." In fact, he got a joke on the air his first week, a rare achievement. His work can also be read on New York-based Web sites CollegeHumor.com and SomeECards.com, where he's a full-time employee, bringing in clicks and laughs. Now, his Twitter follower list is 14,000 deep, and includes a who's-who of contemporary comedy who favorite and retweet his output left and right.

He takes time to chat with Art about how his comedy career came into focus, how social media and humor brought him together with his fiancée, and what it's like to have a comedy career that's rocketed through the roof in just the last 10 months. 73 minutes.

Art's comments: "I knew Chase Mitchell's story would be interesting just from what little I knew of his success, but I wasn't prepared for how amazing it actually is. You're not gonna believe it. This is a story of 'making it' like I've never heard.

"By the way, episode #25 is our one year anniversary show! Thank you to all who have faithfully listened."

If you enjoy this episode, please do share it on Facebook, Twitter, etcetera, using the tools at the bottom of this post. Thank you!

Chase Mitchell links:
Tumblr blog
Chase on Twitter
CollegeHumor.com page
Facebook History of America

22 - Taj Turner, comedian

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First, Art updates you on exciting advancements in his podcasting career, such as being added to the iTunes store for real, joining Stitcher Smart Radio, and most importantly, his first public appearance as a podcasting star (details below)!

Then, rising comedian Taj Turner is welcomed to the studio. Turner shares his amazing story of leaving behind a troubled childhood in Sacramento, California on a Greyhound bus, to running for the Atlanta city council, photography, mixed martial arts, and finally, breaking into the Atlanta comedy scene. He also talks about his new comedy project, The Black Nerd Show. His story of self-reliance and humor is sure to intrigue you. 68 minutes.

Art's comments: "This interview has everything: funny stuff, serious stuff, nonsensical stuff. If I were browsing around for a podcast to download, I would definitely go with this one."

If you enjoy this episode, please use the tools at the end of this entry to share it to Facebook, e-mail, Twitter, etc. Thank you so much!

Taj Turner links:
Taj Comedy.com
The Black Nerd Show
Taj's photography

Ale Con info:
General ALE CON info
Come see Art at ALE CON! Buy tickets here!

15 - Dulcé Sloan, comedian

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Art declares a college degree worthless after having to pay $4 to park at his alma mater, when as an alumni, he's sure it should be free.

Guest is quickly rising Atlanta comedian Dulcé Sloan. Sloan and Art discuss Sloan's rapid rise in the burgeoning Atlanta comedy scene, whether or not there is such a thing as "talking black," and opening for big-name comedians like Greg Proops and Bobcat Goldthwait. 65 minutes. NOTE: Explicit language.

Art's comments: "Dulcé impressed me with her strong stage presence and confidence when I saw her open for Bobcat Goldthwait in January. The sputtering and stammering I do during the interview drives me insane, but oh, well, in spite of me, this may still be a 'keeper' as one of Dulcé's first interviews ever, after she gets her hit sitcom."

If you enjoy this episode, please use the tools located at the bottom of this post to share it to Facebook, Twitter, etc.

Dulcé Sloan links:
Profile at Rooftop Comedy.com
Original videos, including "Sh*t Angry Black Women Say"
Dulcé Sloan.com