Put Your FUNNY Where Your Mouth Is!

Episode 18: How to Build a Day 1 Plan

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell lay out the blueprint for turning dreams into achievable goals with their signature blend of humor and hard-earned wisdom.
Vince opens up about his meticulous planning process, sharing how he uses a mix of OCD and ADD to set clear, measurable goals that drive his success. Dobie reflects on the lessons learned from 40 years in comedy, including the pitfalls of winging it and the importance of building a strong foundation through repetition and resilience.
Together, they break down the art of crafting a "Day 1 Plan" that balances big-picture ambitions with actionable daily steps, whether you're starting out or looking to level up your craft.
Key Points Discussed:
How to set SMART goals that keep you on track
The value of breaking goals into micro and macro steps
Why planning for both on-stage and off-stage growth is critical
Lessons from Dobie’s early days on the road and Vince’s disciplined approach to producing new material
Whether you’re a comedian, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing a dream, this episode delivers practical advice, relatable stories, and plenty of laughs to inspire your next big move.

Episode 17: Chasing Comedy Dreams: Wins, Losses, and Lessons

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell share their comedic hopes, dreams, and unforgettable lessons from the stand-up trenches.
Vince recounts his surreal experience thinking he was auditioning for Saturday Night Live, only to realize it was for an extra role—and how the trip changed his comedic approach forever. Dobie reflects on his early aspirations, his heartbreak after bombing his first paid gig, and how failures shaped his path.
Together, they explore the evolution of their dreams, what it takes to succeed in comedy, and why resilience is the secret ingredient to turning hopes into reality.
Key Points Discussed:
The importance of mentors and learning from failures
How Vince’s SNL "audition" became a turning point
Dobie's story of persevering after early rejections
Balancing life’s responsibilities while chasing big dreams
Whether you’re an aspiring comedian or simply curious about the craft, this episode is packed with relatable moments, humor, and actionable lessons on embracing the highs and lows of pursuing your passion.

Episode 16: The David Spade Story

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone shares an unforgettable story about how a childhood comedic idol, David Spade, inspired his comedy journey—and how that journey took an unexpected turn when Vince was bumped from a feature slot for Spade's show. This personal tale takes a surprising twist when Vince’s resilience leads to an unbelievable opportunity with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Joined by Dobie Maxwell, the duo dives into the emotional highs and lows of show business, offering insight into handling setbacks and seizing unexpected opportunities. They break down lessons in resilience, professionalism, and staying composed when things don’t go your way.
Key Points Discussed:
How Vince’s admiration for David Spade shaped his early career
The heartbreak of being removed from the show and how he handled it
The importance of professionalism when faced with disappointment
How Vince’s standout performance at the Improv led to a call from the Chicago Blackhawks
Lessons on building trust and maintaining relationships in the comedy and corporate world
This episode is a raw and inspiring reminder that setbacks can set the stage for extraordinary comebacks. Tune in for laughter, lessons, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how resilience can open the door to life-changing opportunities.

Episode 15: Is Dobie Smarter Than a Redneck 5th Grader?

In this EPICsode, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell unpack a legendary moment from Dobie's career—his now-famous blunder with Jeff Foxworthy that will have you laughing and shaking your head at the same time. From wild road stories to missed opportunities and life-changing lessons, this episode is a rollercoaster of humor and insight for anyone navigating the world of comedy—or just life itself.
Highlights include:
Dobie’s hilarious misjudgment of the “You Might Be a Redneck” concept—and how it shaped his career.
Lessons learned from trusting your instincts and betting on yourself.
The importance of relationships and connections in the comedy world.
How to handle unexpected challenges, like performing an hour for a crowd waiting on a headliner.
Why taking risks can lead to unexpected rewards.
This EPICsode is more than a backstage pass; it’s a masterclass in resilience, humility, and finding the funny in life’s curveballs. Tune in to hear Dobie’s heartfelt account and Vince’s sharp insights as they uncover the lessons behind the laughs.

Episode 14: How Do You Approach the 'Business' in Show Business?

 
In this second installment of our two-part series on Show Business, we shift the focus to the Business—the behind-the-scenes essentials every comedian needs to succeed. Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down the practical strategies and foundational habits comedians must master to thrive offstage.
This episode is full of actionable advice and real-world insights as Vince and Dobie discuss how to build your comedy career beyond the laughs. From recording your sets to networking effectively, they share the tools and mindset needed to navigate the business side of show business.
Key Points Discussed:
Record Your Sets
Get a Web Presence
Record Your Financials
Get Yourself Booked
Network
Whether you're just starting or looking to level up your career, this episode will give you the blueprint for making comedy a sustainable and professional business. If you missed Part 1 on mastering the Show, go back and listen—because success in comedy takes both halves of the equation!

Episode 13: How Do You Approach the 'Show' in Show Business?

In this first installment of our two-part series on Show Business, we focus on the Show—the onstage side of being a professional comedian. Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down the essential habits and rules every comedian needs to follow to master the art of performing and leave a lasting impression.
This episode is packed with practical advice and real-life stories, as Vince and Dobie discuss the unspoken expectations of comedians and why professionalism on stage is just as important as making people laugh.
Key Points Discussed:
Do Your Time
Do Your Material
Watch the Show
Read the Room
Dress the Part
This episode sets the stage for becoming a true professional in comedy, offering insights that every comedian—from rookies to veterans—needs to hear. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive into the Business side of show business!

Episode 12: Are The Holidays Happy For Comedians?

In this honest and unfiltered episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dive into the gritty reality of being a comedian during the holidays. They explore how comedy can cut through life’s toughest moments, bringing laughs when they’re needed most and offering a brief escape from the chaos.
With personal stories and sharp humor, Vince and Dobie break down the responsibility comedians carry to connect with their audiences, even when the weight of the season is heavy. This episode is a reminder that comedy isn’t just about jokes—it’s about finding light in the dark and giving people a reason to laugh, no matter what.

Episode 11: Why Are Most Comedians Misfits, Outcasts, and Loners?

Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong? In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell get personal, diving into the universal experience of feeling like an outcast. Through heartfelt stories and plenty of laughs, they explore how comedy became their refuge—a place where misfits unite and connection thrives.
From childhood struggles to finding their people on the comedy circuit, Vince and Dobie share what it’s like to navigate life when you don’t quite fit in. They also talk about the mentors who shaped their journeys and the powerful role authenticity plays in creating real connections.
In this episode, we cover:
The importance of finding your “tribe” in comedy and life.
Personal stories of rejection and growth.
How humor helps us connect when we feel like outsiders.
The role of mentorship in helping misfits thrive.
Why authenticity is the key to true belonging.
Whether you’re a comedian, a fan, or someone looking to find your tribe, this episode will inspire, entertain, and remind you that belonging is possible—even when you feel like an outsider.

Episode 10: How Do Comedians Make It Look So Easy?

How do comedians make it look so easy? In this episode, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down the artistry behind seamless comedy performances. From crafting material to perfecting timing and owning the room, they reveal how preparation and showmanship combine to create the illusion of effortlessness. Through personal anecdotes and lessons learned from comedy greats, Vince and Dobie offer a fascinating look at what makes live comedy truly shine.
Main Themes:
The Illusion of Spontaneity: Why rehearsed performances feel fresh when done right.
Showmanship in Comedy: How body language, energy, and presence elevate a performance.
Timing and Pacing: Adjusting delivery to match the audience and setting.
Learning from the Legends: Observing and incorporating lessons from the best in the business.
This episode is a masterclass in the subtleties of comedy performance. Whether you’re a comedian, a speaker, or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, it’s packed with insights that’ll change how you see live entertainment.

Episode 9: How Do You Handle Bombing?

In this candid episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dive into one of the most dreaded experiences for comedians: bombing on stage. With raw honesty and plenty of humor, they share stories of shows gone wrong, from unresponsive audiences to gigs where the environment sabotaged their best efforts.
They explore the emotional toll of a bad set, the lessons learned from these moments, and how they’ve used failure to grow as performers. Vince and Dobie also give practical tips for comedians to handle the unexpected and maintain their composure when everything feels like it’s falling apart. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to survive a tough night in comedy, this episode pulls back the curtain on the reality of the stage.