Gatekeeper With Jamie Flam

Charlie Sotelo (SXSW Comedy) and Jamie discuss the evolution of comedy at SXSW, what he looks for in talent when booking the festival, and how personal character is as or sometimes more important than talent. Plus: Sinbad!

Matt Belknap (aspecialthing records, Never Not Funny) and Jamie discuss how to build a successful comedy record label, what goes into producing a seminal comedy podcast for over a decade, and how to utilize technology to organically build a career in comedy. Plus: The Internet!

Jordan Brady (I Am Road Comic, The Maria Bamford Special Special Special!) and Jamie discuss his evolution from stand-up comedian to filmmaker, ways to maximize income on film projects, and having passion for every aspect of your art. Plus: Eye Candy!

The first ever Gatekeeper potpourri—two interviews for the price of one! First, Mason Currey (author of “Daily Rituals”) and Jamie talk about creating meaningful creative work while also earning a living. Next, Jamie and Chris Mazzilli (Gotham Comedy Club, Talent Manager) talk share booking stories and advice for comedians of every level. Plus: Cupid!

Amanda Meadows & Geoffrey Golden (The Devastator Press) and Jamie discuss the world of comedy publications, best practices for submitting writing proposals, and making the type of art you're a fan of. Plus: Fire!

Jensen Karp (Get Up On This, Gallery 1988, Hot Karl) joins Jamie to discuss the art of juggling multiple projects, the importance of curating art and your day, and what food inspires creativity. Plus: RAP!

Cristela Alonzo (Comedy Central, Cristela, Conan) and Jamie discuss the art of passionate persistence, why late night TV sets still matter, and the importance of sticking to your guns. Plus: Spring cleaning!

Reeta Piazza (GM, Hollywood Improv) & Erin Von Schonfeldt (VP of Talent, Levity Entertainment), discuss 40 years of collective experience working at, running, and booking talent in The Improv club chain. Plus: Chili!

Graham Elwood & Chris Mancini (LA Podfest, Comedy Film Nerds) and Jamie discuss gatekeeping in the world of podcasting, the nitty gritty of producing a successful annual festival, and how to use crowd funding and other resources to fund your creative pursuits. Plus: Adbot is back!

Bart Coleman (@midnight, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The UCB Show) and Jamie discuss what he looks for when booking talent, how to craft the perfect late night set, and why being fearless (even with social media) can have a positive impact on your career. Plus: A talking emoji?!

Todd Glass (Stand up, 'The Todd Glass Show' Podcast) and Jamie discuss the minute details of creating the best possible comedy experience, the importance of evolving as an artist, and doing comedy until you’re dead. Plus: Jazz!

Janet Varney (Burning Love, The Legend of Korra, The JV Club) and Cole Stratton (Pop My Culture Podcast, Rifftrax) talk with Jamie about starting SF Sketchfest, what they look for when booking the festival, and making your own opportunities. Plus: Homemade sound effects

Eric Abrams (Comedy Central) and Jamie discuss the journey from club booker to network development to independent producer and all the rewards and challenges therein. Plus: Weirdness!

Brent Forrester (Mr. Show, The Ben Stiller Show, The Office, The Simpsons, Love) and Jamie discuss comedy as spiritual conquest, the balance of happiness, and the how to create your own writer’s room. Plus: Talkers Block!

Troy Conrad (Producer, Set List) and Jamie discuss the art of being professionally pushy, the poison of entitlement, and being the comic you’d want to book. Plus: Ruckus Making!

Zoe Friedman (Letterman, Comedy Central, Blue Ribbon Content) and Jamie discuss late night booking, comedian development, the art of TV pitching, and the very thin line between persistence and annoyance. Plus: Other Stuff!

Adam Eget (Comedy Store Talent Coordinator) and Jamie discuss/vent about the politics of comedy club booking, dealing with the scourge of entitlement, and the rewards and challenges of booking two historic comedy venues. Plus: Ghosts!

What is a gatekeeper? What is this podcast all about? Artistic Director/Booker of The Hollywood Improv, Jamie Flam, lays it all out. Plus: Awesome sound effects!