In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, veteran comedians Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dive headfirst into one of the most debated topics in comedy: what’s considered offensive, and how do you know when to cross the line? With 40+ years of combined experience, they share personal stories of jokes gone wrong, from hecklers in the audience to punchlines that unintentionally hit too close to home.

Vince and Dobie reflect on how comedy has evolved over the years, discussing what used to be acceptable, what’s off-limits now, and why knowing your audience is key. They also explore the delicate balance between pushing boundaries and making sure no one walks away hurt. You’ll hear them dissect real-life examples from their acts, including stories of pulling jokes to avoid offending, and the lessons they've learned about handling backlash.

Whether you’re a comedian, speaker, or just a fan of stand-up, this episode offers a peek behind the curtain at the craft of comedy and the risks comedians take with every punchline. Tune in for an honest, insightful conversation about what it means to make people laugh in today’s world.

In this episode of "Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is," hosts Dobie Maxwell and Vince Carone dive into the wild world of travel mishaps with "5-Nightmare Road Stories" With over 60 years of combined comedy experience, these seasoned road warriors share their most outrageous and hilarious travel woes, from car troubles to unexpected hotel antics.

Join them as they recount tales of missed flights, frozen locks, and the perils of navigating snowy ditches—all while trying to make it to gigs on time. Whether it's a disastrous detour or a comical encounter with a school bus, these stories are sure to resonate with anyone who's ever faced the chaos of travel.

Expect laughter, relatable moments, and valuable lessons learned from the road. So buckle up and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of travel tales that will leave you in stitches and remind you that sometimes, the journey is just as entertaining as the destination. Don't miss out—tune in now!

In this episode of the “Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is” podcast, hosts Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell delve into the topic of heckling, a common concern for new comedians. They discuss how aspiring comics often fear dealing with hecklers despite their limited experience. Vince recalls his time in Dobie’s comedy class, where students were anxious about potential hecklers, though Dobie reassured them that it would be minimal during their supportive graduation show. However, Dobie himself faced a heckler during his graduation performance and reacted strongly, emphasizing his protective instincts towards the audience.

The hosts differentiate between harmful interruptions and positive audience engagement, stressing the significance of intent behind heckling. One speaker reflects on their past aggressive responses to hecklers, realizing these reactions were rooted in personal issues rather than the hecklers themselves. They share experiences that taught them about the fine line between wit and cruelty, aiming to foster a more inclusive atmosphere while controlling the show. The narrative includes personal anecdotes about early comedy challenges and encounters with disruptive hecklers, highlighting the emotional dynamics at play.

The discussion also touches on how some hecklers may act out of jealousy or personal pain, prompting a sympathetic understanding. A poignant moment is shared about a heckler named Bob who praised the narrator’s talent before passing away, illustrating the complex relationships between comedians and hecklers. The hosts recount various live performance experiences, including challenges with disruptive audience members and the unpredictable nature of live shows, while underscoring the importance of maintaining audience engagement. Overall, the episode offers insights into the resilience required in stand-up comedy and hints at further exploration of heckler-related stories in future episodes.

In the inaugural episode of the “Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is” podcast, hosts Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell delve into their comedic paths. Dobie, a stand-up comedy instructor at Zanies Comedy Club in Chicago, reflects on mentoring Vince, who transitioned from music to comedy after being inspired by family comedy specials. Vince shares his early experiences, including writing jokes in high school and facing challenges at the Second City Training Center. Dobie recounts joining a competitive improv group in Milwaukee and navigating the tough beginnings of stand-up, such as finding venues and crafting material.

Vince’s first open mic experience at the Red Lion Pub in 2001 is highlighted, as well as Dobie’s first experience, where a spontaneous joke about a football player marked a turning point in his commitment to comedy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of taking risks and making small choices in pursuing one’s passions.

The discussion covers the necessity for resilience when performing for varied audiences, addressing common misconceptions about the pressures of comedy, particularly in corporate settings. They stress the importance of relatability and effective engagement techniques, such as storytelling and voice modulation. The hosts also explore how humor relies on surprise and the evolution of self-assessment in performance, noting that audience perceptions often differ from performers’ critiques.

As experienced comedians, Vince and Dobie aim to support those new to public speaking through their podcast, advocating for progress over perfection and sharing insights to help listeners enhance their speaking skills in future episodes.

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, comedians Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell pay tribute to their late friend and fellow comedian, Norm Stulz, Michigan’s premier storyteller. The two reminisce about Norm's influence on their careers, his unique ability to balance family life with comedy, and the legacy he left behind. Through heartfelt stories and personal anecdotes, they reflect on Norm’s kind nature, his unmatched storytelling ability, and the importance of making genuine connections in the comedy world.

Vince and Dobie also share their own experiences performing alongside Norm and recount the invaluable lessons they learned from him—both on stage and off. From riding motorcycles on Thanksgiving to performing in the competitive comedy festival circuit, this episode is a heartfelt homage to a comedian who not only made people laugh but also made them feel welcome. As they reflect on Norm’s legacy, Vince and Dobie dive into what it means to truly live in the moment, both in comedy and in life, while emphasizing the impact that Norm’s warmth and humor had on everyone around him.

The episode offers a mix of humor, reflection, and camaraderie, making it a touching tribute to a beloved figure in the comedy world and an engaging listen for anyone interested in the deeper connections behind the laughs.

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Dobie Maxwell and Vince Carone unpack what makes a performance truly unforgettable. Through candid stories and behind-the-scenes insights, they reveal the key elements of delivering a memorable show. Dobie recounts a powerful jazz performance that left an impression on him and shares his experience watching a street musician pour everything into his music for an unexpected audience. Together, they discuss everything from finding your flow on stage to mastering the ability to connect with any crowd. It’s an episode filled with insights on how preparation, passion, and resilience can transform a performance.

Listeners are invited to join Dobie and Vince as they explore the highs and lows of live shows, why every audience deserves your best, and how you can bring genuine energy to the stage—even when the crowd is tough. This episode is a must-listen for performers and fans alike, providing a refreshing look at what it really takes to make every show unforgettable.

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell take you behind the scenes of the comedy world as they share their experiences working with some of the biggest names in the industry. From unforgettable run-ins to inspiring moments, Vince and Dobie reveal what it’s really like to connect with comedy legends. They discuss how different stars handle fame and the unspoken rules for meeting celebrities—whether it’s keeping things professional, staying calm, or seizing a rare chance to connect.

With stories about the kindness of Billy Gardell, Jon Lovitz’s witty side, and Emo Phillips staying in character no matter what, this episode gives listeners a look at the real people behind the fame. Vince and Dobie talk about the lessons they’ve learned on respecting boundaries, reading the room, and treating celebrities as people first. Plus, they offer tips for anyone meeting their heroes on how to make the experience genuine and memorable.

Whether you’re a comedy fan, a fellow performer, or just curious about the world behind the spotlight, this episode delivers humor, insight, and plenty of entertaining stories about life alongside comedy’s elite.

In this episode, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell take on one of the most popular questions they get as comedians: “Where do you get your material?” They dive into their creative process, from everyday observations to deep personal stories, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how humor is crafted. Vince discusses his journey to finding his voice, realizing that his comedic “fastball” lay in ranting about life’s absurdities. Dobie shares insights into the artistry of comedy, comparing it to sculpting a statue—you find the funny by chipping away everything else. Tune in for tips on building material, storytelling, and how to transform life’s quirks into laughs.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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:

1. Do Your Time
2. Do Your Material
3. Watch the Show
4. Read the Room
5. 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!

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dissect one of the most crucial elements of any comedian’s set: the opening bit.

They discuss why the opening of your set is the most important moment to grab attention, build trust, and establish your comedic style. Vince shares his approach to structuring an opening bit, using his Bad Father special as an example of connecting with audiences through relatable, topical humor. Dobie reflects on his tried-and-true “Mr. Lucky” opener, offering advice on creating rhythm and earning that first big laugh.

Whether you're a seasoned comic or stepping on stage for the first time, this episode dives into the building blocks of a memorable opening bit. It provides actionable tips for leaving a lasting first impression.

Key Points Discussed:

• The difference between an opening line, an opening bit, and a theme
• How to build rhythm, trust, and connection in the first three minutes
• Why non-controversial openers often work best
• Tips to avoid common pitfalls like asking questions or meandering setups
• Personal examples from Vince and Dobie on how to grab attention fast

This episode is your guide to starting strong, setting the tone, and structuring an opener that hooks your audience from the moment you step on stage.

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down one of the most crucial elements of stand-up comedy: the closing bit.

Your closer isn’t just another joke—it’s the exclamation point on your performance, the moment that leaves the audience with a lasting impression. Vince and Dobie discuss what makes a great closing bit, share legendary examples, and reveal how their own closers have evolved over time. From callbacks to summation, they unpack the different techniques that help comedians craft the perfect ending to their sets.

Vince shares the thought process behind the closer in his Bad Father special and how a long-form personal story became his ultimate show-ender. Dobie reflects on his own experiences with closers—what worked, what bombed, and how audiences will always tell you when it’s time to get off stage.

Key Points Discussed:

• What separates a strong closer from a weak one
• The role of summation, callbacks, and exclamation points in a closing bit
• Legendary closing bits from comics like Ellen DeGeneres, Bill Burr, and George Carlin
• Why your closer should signal the end organically—without you saying "Goodnight!"
• How to avoid common mistakes, including rambling, weak endings, and bad merch pitches

Whether you're a new comic trying to build your first set or a seasoned performer refining your closer, this episode delivers practical insights, personal stories, and a few laughs along the way.

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell break down one of the most overlooked yet essential skills in stand-up comedy—hosting.

Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned headliner, learning how to run the show, set the tone, and keep the audience engaged is a game-changer. Dobie shares his experiences as a seasoned Emcee, while Vince reflects on the challenges of adjusting his high-energy style to fit the hosting role.

Key Points Discussed: ✅ The true role of a comedy host—why you’re the most important person in the lineup ✅ Why being a great MC can boost your career and income ✅ Biggest hosting mistakes that ruin the flow of a comedy show ✅ How to transition seamlessly between comics and control the crowd ✅ What every host should (and shouldn’t) say when introducing comedians

From learning how to handle rowdy crowds to understanding why hosting is an underrated path to success, this episode is packed with insider knowledge, hilarious stories, and practical advice.

🎤 Tune in now and level up your hosting game!