There It Is Podcast

We got to speak to the incredibly talented comedian and Broadway actress, Natalie Ortega! Jason talks with Natalie, currently starring in "Wicked" on Broadway, about her journey from musical theater to stand-up to performing in NYC. Natalie shares her experiences balancing eight shows of Wicked a week with performing in the New York Comedy Festival, being a theater-loving kid, why she started doing stand-up comedy during the pandemic, how she writes comedic songs, moving to LA, the differences between the NY and LA comedy scenes, and much more. Natalie is a damn delight so it's a super fun chat! https://linktr.ee/nataliegraceortega TikTok: @NatalieGraceOrtega, @JasonFarrToks Instagram: @NatalieGraceOrtega, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Jason talks with the multifaceted director and improviser Brian James O'Connell. This great conversation with Brian (who is currently on an improv tour) starts with a little chat about improv before it dives into Brian's work behind the camera. They discuss his journey from aspiring musician to acclaimed director, touching on his work with the comedy crew Dr. God, the films he has directed, and the importance of understanding editing to enhance acting. Highlights include working with notable actors like Pedro Pascal and Joel Murray on 'Bloodsucking Bastards,' insights into his creative process, and the importance of collaboration on set. Brian shares valuable advice for actors and directors, emphasizing the significance of asking questions and understanding the technical aspects of filmmaking. Bring him to your town! highwireimprov.com/boc-tour Instagram: @b3OC, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @b3OC, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this 2024 Thanksgiving Episode, Jason talks about what he's thankful for with the podcast, great episodes of the year and to come, and he also talks about why it's important for all of us to be grateful for our experiences when pursuing a career in entertainment. We hope it's an encouraging listen! Check out the link below for info on how to be more grateful www.mindful.org/an-introduction-to-mindful-gratitude/ Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We got to talk to actress/director/writer, Emmy Harrington! In this edifying episode, Jason sits down with actress and comedian, Emmy Harrington, to discuss her diverse career journey. Emmy talks about doing theater and comedy in California before eventually becoming a New Yorker. They dive deep into Emmy's unique perspective on truth in comedy and storytelling, her experiences with rejection in the entertainment industry, and her transition to directing with her award-winning film Two Little Bitches. Emmy also talks about her quirky variety show, SCORE, and emphasizes the importance of creating your own opportunities in the creative field. It's a heartfelt conversation. www.emmyharrington.com Tickets to the Dec. 3 SCORE at Caveat: www.eventbrite.com/e/score-tickets-1063134868009 Instagram: @TheEmmyHarrington, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talked to Atlanta-based comedian, Joel Byars! Joel and Jason dive deep into the nuances and challenges of stand-up comedy. Joel shares his journey from starting out in Tennessee to building a name in Atlanta's comedy scene, his experiences teaching aspiring comedians, and the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the craft. We also discuss the intersection of stand-up and improv, the collaborative nature of today's comedy world, his podcast Hot Breath and the community he's fostering around it, and the criticality of understanding the 'business' side of show business. Plus, Joel provides valuable tips for budding comedians, emphasizing the significance of getting on stage and continually honing your skills. It's a fun and engaging chat. Joel's Site: www.joelbyarscomedy.com Hot Breath YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/HotBreathPod Hot Breath Community: www.facebook.com/groups/HotBreathComedyNetwork Instagram: @JoelByarsComedy,  @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Facebook: @JoelByarsComedian, @ThereItIsPod  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

This is a quick episode to encourage you to get out an vote on Election Day 2024. We're not doing an exhaustive breakdown on each candidate. That's not what we do. But we do want to provide some sites you can visit to learn about what's on the ballot where you live and check your registration and where to vote. Here are those links: https://www.vote411.org https://www.factcheck.org Happy Voting! Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

For this spooky Halloween episode, the "Of the Show" gang (Justina, Rob, and Trey) join Jason to delve into a haunting bracket to determine the ultimate horror movie villain. They discuss iconic characters like Jason Voorhees, Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, and many others. Listen in to find out who becomes the final girl and get some suggestions for must-watch horror films this season! Download your bracket here: https://static.wixstatic.com/media/53066f_7fea9f963745410a8b85db62dad2fb12~mv2.png Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We do a deep dive into improv with performer, Sam Rogal! Jason sits down with New York-based performer Sam Rogal for this fun chat! Sam shares his extensive experience at the Magnet Theater, recounting his time performing improv and sketch with teams like Metal Boy and Nitro Girls. He also discusses Metal Boy's current show, 'Your Worst Idea,' which celebrates creative failures. From the importance of chemistry in improv teams to the interplay of comedy and history, Sam offers insights drawn from his journey from Buck's Rock Camp to leading improv teams. Tune in for practical advice on balancing fun and audience satisfaction, advanced improv techniques, and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories that reveal the joy and challenges of the craft. Tickets! Metal Boy's "Your Worst Idea": magnettheater.com/show/tickets/58720 The Power Joker: caveat.nyc/events/the-power-joker-a-robert-moses-comedy-show-11-3-2024 Friday Night Show: https://magnettheater.com/show/58943/ Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We sat down with speech pathologist, children's book author, and "Best Friend of the Show," Clay Hadden. Clay, also known as Mister Clay, shares his journey from a traditional career to a creative professional, providing entertaining and educational content for kids. He delves into the impact of working closely with children and the importance of listening to them. He and Jason also discuss media consumption, Clay's thoughtful approach to screen content, and his insights on popular children's shows like 'Bluey' and 'Cocomelon'. Clay also talks about his experiences in publishing, from self-publishing to collaborating with Ninewise Publishing, and the creative processes behind his new book 'I Hear Nature'. https://www.ninewisepublishing.com/ihearnature YouTube: @MisterClay, @ThereItIs Instagram: @mister_clay_slp, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @misterclayslp, @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Dive into an engaging conversation about improv and writing with Ashley Siflinger! Jason's good buddy, Ashley, discusses her journey from growing up in Long Island to discovering her love for comedy and improv in college after initially pursuing a more serious acting path. She shares insights into her experiences with the Magnet Theater, how improv has influenced her playwriting, and vice versa. Throughout the episode, Ashley and Jason perform improv together on the Friday Night Show and they dive into the intricacies of comedic performance, detailing personal hurdles performing and the artistic evolution that accompanies it. It's a revealing chat about their mutual appreciation for comedy that is both sincere and reflective of artistic voices. Join them as they explore the nuances of finding humor and truth on stage, offering a captivating look into the world of improv. www.strollerscene.com www.ashleysiflinger.com Instagram: @strollerscene, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

It's a Pop Talk with the entire "Of the Show" gang! Rob, Trey, and Justina are here to talk about the premiere of the 50th season of Saturday Night Live, what they hope to see the rest of the season, potentials hosts, and they talk about what other shows they are watching or hope to watch. The South has been devastated by Hurricane Helene. Please consider donating to your preferred organizations to help in the recovery effort. Being former Carolinians we do have two options to donate to recovery efforts in North and South Carolina below, but please look at ways to serve all areas affected by this hurricane. https://www.nc.gov/disaster-relief-fund-faqs https://foodbankcenc.org/helene/ Also, Best Friend of the Show, Rob's son is selling popcorn so support the kiddo at the link below: https://trails-end.com/store/scout/ZJCO7QU4?share=TOU72RGE Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We had a great chat with improviser and Magnet Theater co-owner, Sean Taylor! Jason and Sean talk about Sean's starting improv at Dartmouth and how Mindy Kaling played a role in him starting his journey through the NYC improv scene from studying at UCB and The PIT to landing at Magnet, where he performed and taught at before becoming a co-owner. He talks about his thoughts on performing and teaching improv and how, aside from being a lover of improv, he is also a lover of pizza! We talk about his 31 Days of Pizza food blog, which he's done for over 20 years, to celebrate National Pizza Month by eating pizza every day from different pizza spots. They delve into the importance of living an interesting life outside of comedy to enhance onstage performances and talk about Sean's latest pursuits, including playing Fortnite and joining a bowling league. This episode is a delicious mix of comedy, life experiences, and mouth-watering pizza chat! Note: Pizza is not provided by the podcast. It's a fun chat! 31daysofpizza.blogspot.com TikTok: @31DaysofPizza Instagram: @MagnetTheater, @31DaysOfPizza, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Facebook: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Join us on an exciting journey through Japan as we breakdown our honeymoon adventures! From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Kyoto and the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, we experienced incredible food tours, cultural sightings, and phenomenal hospitality. Jason and Justina share highlights of their honeymoon that include visits to the Snoopy Museum, the Tokyo Comedy Bar, an unbelievable TeamLabs art experience, and an unforgettable meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant where Justina tried to eat a lime. We also share our moments of awe and discovery in Hakone, an inspiring visit to the Open-Air Museum and more. The touring companies we used: https://tokyo-memories.com https://www.cityunscripted.com https://noru.cc https://pinpointtraveler.com/osaka-tour Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this quick lil' episode Jason talks about where comedy is at these days. There's talk about sitcoms being dead, comedy movies being hard to make, inspired comedy, and how the comedy scene seems to be doing. Look at this as a conversation starter! How do you think comedy is going these days? Let us know! Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We got a great talk in with comedian Andy C. Rider! The two old pals chat about their Winthrop University days, how their careers evolved, and lament their schools getting glowed up after they paid their tuition. They explore the challenges of pursuing comedy, the differences in stand-up scenes in various cities, the struggles of moving to LA, and realizing you're living someone's dream. Andy sheds light on the process of creating and promoting his hit debut comedy album, The Get Together, and shares insights into writing material based on personal interests. The episode is a deep dive into the comedy world with anecdotes, reflections, and practical advice. It's fun! Get The Get Together: https://tr.ee/wd7_vVHhHP Instagram: @AndyRiderAgain, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @TheAndyRider, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We chatted with NYC improviser, performer, and co-founder of VoteDown, Matt Abedi. In this engaging conversation, Jason and Matt discuss the intricate relationship between politics and comedy. Matt shares his journey from a politically-inclined youth to a comedy lover, drawing inspiration from icons like Chris Rock, Robin Williams, and Jim Carrey. His debate background and experience working on the Obama campaign reveal how humor can be a powerful tool in political settings. The conversation delves into the problematic nature of current political structures and how Matt's initiative, Vote Down, aims to empower voters and hold politicians accountable. It's a great chat! www.votedown.org Their fundraising page: www.votedown.org/Campaign/votedown Instagram: @MattAbedi, @VoteDownOrg, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We had a lively chat with "DRANKIN' with Dory" host, Dory Gail Greenberg! Dory is a neighborhood pal of Jason and Justina's. We had to have her on to talk about her fun live show "DRANKIN' with Dory" and how she got into doing shows. Dory talks about her time coming up in Boston, how she got into doing shows, her approach to interviews, her career, and much more. It's a super fun chat with some libations because if you're going to have Dory on you have to do it while DRANKIN'! www.drankinwithdory.com Support for the podcast: www.thereitispod.com/support Instagram: @DrankinWithDory, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We got to talk to the talented actress and filmmaker, Melissa Center! Melissa talks about her time in Los Angeles before moving to New York City, developing short films, starring in TV shows like Chicago Fire and True Detective, her early love for acting, and performance troupes in her youth. We also explore her creative process, the inspirations behind her projects, such as the intriguing play Marrying Jake Gyllenhaal, and her experiences with crowdfunding. Insightful and full of personal anecdotes, this episode offers a peek into the life of a committed artist maneuvering through the challenges and triumphs of art. GoFundMe for Craig Holcombe's son: https://gofund.me/ea4a979e melissacenter.com Crowdfunding: https://themelissacenter.ck.page/7ec415f908 Instagram: @officialmelissacenter, @reifenberger, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

The "Of the Show Fellas" are here to talk all that pop about their favorite Summer for going to the movies! After Jason shares his new ranking for popcorn movies and issues a necessary rebuke of snobby film critics he talks to "Best Friend of the Show" Rob, and "Brother of the Show" Trey, about how much they liked Deadpool & Wolverine, how well they think it and Twisters will do at the box office this year, and their favorite Summer for moviegoing. It's a fun chat! LFG! Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We got to talk to Magnet Theater musical improv director, instructor, and performer, Chris Bell! Chris reveals his journey from performing in high school drama classes to becoming an accomplished musical improviser. Jason and Chris discuss the importance of ensemble mentality, theatricality in musical improv, and balancing real-life experiences with performance emphasizing how commitment and making definitive choices on stage can overcome perfectionism. Chris also reflects on his experiences teaching improv and his journey to dig deeper because it's a journey, baby! Undressed: The Musical: www.undressedmusical.com Instagram: @UndressedMusical, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis