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Send us a text A high school writer with jokes that didn’t fit the rubric found a mic, a room, and a path. Charlie Cantrell joins us to pull back the curtain on how a careful craftsman became a working New York comic—without losing the nerve to bomb, pivot, and grow. We talk about the early days at the venue on 35th Street, where five-dollar Thursdays and honest tags turned rough ideas into real sets. From there, Charlie walks us through Hampton Roads to Manhattan, why comics often commit to a few rooms instead of chasing every stage, and how the right environment accelerates timing, cadence, and confidence. The craft talk goes deep. Charlie once timed every joke and kept binders with a table of contents; now he mixes that structure with improv to work premises live and find the laugh in the moment. We compare “good laughs” that survive weekends to “bad laughs” that only pop in smoky bar chaos, and we trade war stories about hecklers, empty Sundays during football season, and the weird humility of having your dad drive you to a hostile open mic. It’s the unglamorous part of comedy that builds a resilient voice: data from failure, trust earned onstage, and a thicker skin for the next rep. We also explore influence and evolution. Conan O’Brien’s silly-smart elasticity, Gary Shandling’s authentic introspection, Chris Rock’s sharp angles, and Bill Burr’s shifting POV inform how Charlie structures bits and paces stories. That leads to today’s big question for working comics: when do you burn an hour? We dig into specials, 30-minute formats, and the strategy of building a second hour before releasing the first. Along the way, Charlie shares what acting and improv added to his toolbox—listening, presence, and the freedom to stop chasing a laugh every ten seconds. If you’re chasing stand-up, curious about the New York scene, or just love hearing how jokes become sets that actually work, this one’s for you. Hit play, then tell us your favorite comedy special and why it still holds up. Subscribe, share with a comic friend, and leave a review so more folks can find the show. Support the show

Send us a text Ever felt the tug to rewrite your story? We sit down with writer–director Kendra Louka to trace how a biochem track, long drives past Virginia farmland, and a move to a slower English village evolved into a filmmaking voice shaped by character, community, and curiosity. Kendra opens up about giving herself permission to be imperfect, how a Facebook call for a 10-minute play cracked the door to theater, and why the right collaborators can turn a scary idea into a finished short that resonates. We go deep on three films. Frizzy Friends uses a salon and a 48-hour challenge constraint to examine friendship drift and what still holds when life changes. No Grace brings a haunted listing to life with twisty psychology and an unreliable aura that keeps you guessing about memory and myth. Heart Strings drops dialogue entirely, letting a banjo, a dancer, and the ocean’s rhythm speak to the courage of returning after being ignored. Across these stories, Kendra favors intimate stakes, clear arcs, and visuals that make room for the audience to interpret without feeling lost. We also zoom out to the creative ecosystem: festival circuits, the push–pull of streaming versus theaters, and the real cost of chasing reach while protecting the joy of making. We compare filmmaking’s iterative notes with stand-up’s brutal honesty—no cutting, no laugh tracks, just timing, breath, and crowd chemistry under the lights. Along the way we swap favorite character-driven films, talk AI anxiety and artistic purpose, and land on a simple metric for success: did the work create connection? If you’re building your voice or looking for a reason to start, this conversation feels like a green light. Enjoy the episode? Subscribe, share it with a friend who needs a creative nudge, and leave a quick review so more storytellers can find us. Support the show

Send us a text Ever hear a single sentence change someone’s life? That’s how Jay Flake’s story starts—cracking jokes in a corporate training room when an older coworker told him he’d missed his calling. One open mic later, the Nashville comic found his lane: high-energy, true-story material that feels lived-in, then sharpened it into a clean-comedy brand that books hard and lasts longer. We dig into the gritty rise that rarely makes the highlight reel: Zoom corporate sets, underground rooms, patio shows, and a pandemic album that hit festivals even as the video stayed shelved to protect the brand. Jay breaks down why some jokes belong to their moment, how cleaner material unlocked better gigs, and how to translate everyday chaos into bits that crush without cheap shots. The COVID talk is raw and hilarious—taste disappearing mid-breakfast, a hotel deodorant “taste test,” and the lonely, surreal weeks that turned survival into stories. The craft gets equal airtime. Jay salutes Bernie Mac’s fearlessness, Dave Chappelle’s ease with ordinary ideas, and Ali Sadiq’s storytelling and business blueprint: drop on Patreon, expand on YouTube, then license to streamers for a third check. We also walk through Andrew Schultz’s clip-first playbook and the discipline behind album timing—finding minutes, trimming fat, and protecting your voice. Plus, the green room rules nobody teaches: listen more than you talk, guard private shop talk, and treat owners and managers like the partners they are. Want the laughs and the ladder? This one gives both—part origin story, part strategy guide, and packed with practical moves any comic or creator can use right now. Tap play, then check Jay's 13-minute NateLand showcase and see the craft in action. If this conversation hits, subscribe, share it with a comedy friend, and drop a review with your favorite takeaway. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text Smoke-filled sets, long quiet drives, and the stubborn joy of getting the joke right—this conversation with comedian and writer Ed Phillips digs into the parts of comedy most people skip. We start with the real: improv roots at a Virginia Beach Cinema Cafe, the three-month wait to get a shot, and how those early reps shaped his timing, listening, and confidence on stage. From there, Ed explains how sketch sharpened his structure and why his best stand-up sticks close to lived moments—like a Blue Ridge camping trip that became a vivid bit about fear, friendship, and a maybe-bear. We talk craft without fluff. Ed breaks down how he studies specials and sets across HBO, YouTube, Hulu, and beyond, pulling lessons on economy, escalation, and callbacks from comics like Sinbad, Mitch Hedberg, Josh Johnson, and Ramy Youssef. Mentorship takes center stage too. Honest notes from veterans like Mike East Mill cut years off the learning curve: kill weak tags, fix the angle, and don’t post half-cooked material just to feed the algorithm. There’s wisdom in letting a joke live in rooms until it’s ready for the internet. Then we zoom out to the 757 scene. Producers are building better rooms, comics are pushing past the comfort of hometown applause, and the real growth comes from traveling—testing whether your voice lands outside your zip code. Ed shares wins (hosting at BlurCon with Orlando Jones), losses (that “brave” compliment every comic dreads), and the recovery rituals after smoke-lounge gigs and late nights before a 6 a.m. shift. Through it all, his philosophy stays simple: write honestly, perform widely, learn quickly, and dress sharp because it’s you—not a bit. If you care about the craft—how jokes are built, how scenes evolve, and how comics keep going after the rough nights—hit play. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves stand-up, and leave a review with the best lesson you learned or the biggest bomb that made you better. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io What happens when you trade a boardroom for a black box theater and decide to start from scratch in your 50s? We sit down with actor and stand-up comic Sheri Gill Dixon for a fearless, funny, and deeply human conversation about falling in love with movies as a teenage usher threading reels, discovering Meisner training in Virginia Beach, and building a comedy voice that lives or dies by instant feedback. Sheri takes us behind the scenes of big sets like Tammy—where she held her boundaries without apology—and shares why watching Melissa McCarthy and Kathy Bates work reminded her that kindness and professionalism scale. The heart of this conversation lives on stage. Sheri breaks down how she moved from the safety of scripts to the risk of stand-up, why writing often happens mid-set, and how crowd work can surface sharper material than any quiet desk session. We talk influence and range—Joan Rivers and Moms Mabley opening doors; Richard Pryor, Bernie Mac, Dave Chappelle shaping storytelling; Seinfeld’s polish and Miss Pat’s punch; Thea Vidale’s relatable grit—and how those threads weave into a voice that’s unmistakably her own. We also get real about women in comedy: the scarcity baked into flyers, the myth of one chair, and how the Ladies of Comedy pack flips the script through collaboration, shared opportunities, and relentless support. Beyond the mic, Sheri opens up about motivation that isn’t Instagram-ready. Working in transit surfaced daily inequities; the George Floyd era pushed her toward doctoral work and sharpened her belief that art can ease what policy cannot. Comedy becomes the pressure valve and the bridge: a room that laughs together, even for an hour, carries less weight home. We swap notes on good rooms and cold crowds, choosing where to spend your energy, and the quiet power of a stranger saying your set made their night worth the babysitter. If you’re navigating a late start, eyeing a pivot from acting to stand-up, or building a creative crew that resists gatekeeping, this one’s for you. Hit follow, share this with a friend who needs the nudge, and drop a review with the moment that stuck with you—what leap are you ready to take next? Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text Step into the world of stand-up comedy with KellsMorton, a rising comedian who's turning life's realities into laughs that resonate with audiences everywhere. From her humble beginnings taking comedy classes to performing at sold-out venues, Kells shares the authentic journey of finding her voice in a competitive industry. What makes great comedy? According to Kells, it's truth. Drawing from personal experiences—three marriages, raising children, health topics like mammograms—she creates material that consistently connects with audiences who approach her after shows saying, "Everything you said was just the truth." This authenticity has helped her build a growing fanbase and open for notable names like Omar Gooden and social media star Danae Hayes. The conversation dives into the reality of the comedy scene, from the formation of her "Comedy Avengers" group with fellow female comedians to the business side of stand-up. Kells reveals how something as simple as business cards helped grow her social media following from 890 to nearly 3,000 followers. She also discusses comedy influences ranging from Redd Foxx to Dave Chappelle, and shares what it's like to get advice (sometimes harshly delivered) from established comedians like DL Hughley. Whether you're an aspiring comedian or simply fascinated by the craft of comedy, this episode offers valuable insights into what it takes to develop material that resonates, navigate the ups and downs of performance, and build meaningful connections in the entertainment industry. Follow Kells Morton on social media @kellsthegreat to witness firsthand how she's transforming everyday experiences into laughter. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text Turning personal setbacks into creative gold is the hallmark of true entrepreneurs, and Jay Davis exemplifies this transformation. After a divorce fifteen years ago, he began writing short stories about dating experiences, eventually filming them as sketches when "nobody was doing sketches on the internet back then." That initial spark ignited a creative empire spanning four feature films, multiple series, children's books, and the acclaimed show "The Creative Hustle" on Tubi. Davis pulls back the curtain on his creative process and business acumen during this candid conversation. When COVID halted traditional production, he pivoted to animation and, drawing inspiration from Robert Townsend's "Partners in Crime," assembled talented comedians to create "The Creative Hustle" – a fresh blend of sketch comedy, improv, and stand-up complemented by a live band. The show tackles contemporary issues like cancel culture with intelligent humor while showcasing established comedians including Leon Rogers, Damon Williams, and Rodney Perry. Beyond his own creative pursuits, Davis's commitment to community-building shines through his establishment of the Bernie Mac Lifetime Achievement Award and creation of IndieCon, a film festival designed to support genuine independent filmmakers without the gatekeeping common in the industry. He debunks the myth of mysterious investors funding creative projects, instead emphasizing self-reliance: "Everything comes out of pocket... whatever revenue we make from a project, we use it towards the next project." His parting advice to aspiring creators is refreshingly straightforward: "Do your research... stop being lazy. You got a fucking computer in your hand... do your research and grind." Follow Jay's journey on social media @jdavistp and catch "The Creative Hustle" on Tubi, with an expanded second season featuring 8 episodes, 16 comedians, and 25 sketches coming soon. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text Kylie Kassh, professional dominatrix of 17 years and content creator, shares her journey from accidental dom to lifestyle professional in this candid conversation about power dynamics, boundaries, and the business of domination. • Discovered her dominatrix potential when a friend noticed her naturally commanding style with boyfriends • Began her career working in a Chicago dungeon where she trained under experienced dominatrixes • Learned her boundaries early when confronted with medical play involving needles during her first day • Underwent an "initiation" that confirmed her purely dominant nature when she couldn't handle being restrained • Explains the difference between lifestyle doms, switches, and subs in the BDSM community • Shares her favorite fetishes including flogging, cross-dressing clients, tease and denial techniques • Owns approximately 17 floggers ranging from inexpensive to $500 specialty pieces • Discusses the massage fetish and how it represents a natural power exchange • Reveals many clients are married men whose partners aren't interested in exploring fetishes • Sets firm boundaries on certain practices while maintaining others, particularly avoiding "scat play" • Plans to continue working indefinitely as "there are no age brackets in domination" • Maintains separate personal and professional lives while acknowledging they sometimes overlap • Provides consulting services beyond domination work through her business ventures If you're interested in learning more about Kylie's work, follow her on Instagram at Goddess_kylie_kassh or visit her consulting business at Kashwealthfirm.com. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text Josh Ward doesn't just tell jokes; he transforms life's darkest moments into something beautiful through comedy. During our candid conversation, this self-described "underground comedy king" reveals how he channeled the grief of losing his son into his powerful special "My Special Boy" - a 21-minute journey that showcases his remarkable ability to find humor within pain. Despite being just three years into his comedy career, Ward displays the confidence and skill of someone who's been performing far longer. He takes us behind the scenes of developing deeply personal material, sharing the struggle of preventing audiences from becoming too emotionally invested while still honoring his authentic experience. "I had to address the audience like 'y'all can't get all sad about this, because then it's not gonna be funny if y'all in here about to weep for me,'" he explains with refreshing honesty. Ward's journey to comedy has unexpected roots in his religious upbringing. As the son of ministers, he regularly spoke in front of church congregations, developing the public speaking foundation that would later serve his comedy. His first true comedy performance wasn't at an open mic but at a family reunion, where he boldly delivered raunchy material to relatives of all ages - a true baptism by fire. This fearlessness continues to define his approach, preferring longer sets where he can truly establish rhythm and connection with the audience. The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Ward discusses the brutal realities of open mic culture, including an encounter with another comedian who tried roasting his appearance while he was working through material about his son. "I got up and left the mic because on the inside I was about to cry, but on the outside I was about to fight," he shares, capturing the vulnerability comedians face when developing deeply personal work. Through these experiences, he's developed an audience-first philosophy that has accelerated his growth: "Laughs in the crowd, every room I go in and it's an audience, I'm cooking." Ready to witness raw talent and authentic storytelling? Follow Josh Ward at @joshwardcomedy on all platforms and check out "My Special Boy" on YouTube to experience what happens when grief transforms into art through the healing power of laughter. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text What happens when you're a sunflower trying to bloom in a rose garden? Dezz Nicholson knows that feeling all too well. The accomplished poet, singer, and creative sits down with Rome Davis to discuss the complex journey of finding your authentic voice and space in a creative world that often feels threatened by new talent. Dezz takes us through her origins as an entrepreneurial fourth-grader charging $1 to write customized love poems for classmates, to her transformation into a powerful performer who discovered her gift when she made someone cry with her words at a high school Black History Month event. Her story isn't just about talent—it's about having the courage to recognize when you're in the wrong environment. "If I am a sunflower in a rose garden, I cannot get mad at the roses for having thorns and pricking me. I can, however, leave the rose garden and go through to the sunflower field where I don't have to worry about anybody pricking me," Dezz explains, providing a powerful framework for artists struggling to fit in spaces that weren't designed for them. The conversation dives deep into the gatekeeping mentality that pervades creative communities, where established artists protect their territory rather than mentor newcomers. Dezz challenges this scarcity mindset with her belief that "the spotlight is large enough for all of us." She discusses how fear keeps many artists stuck in their comfort zones, preventing growth while they simultaneously complain about not achieving broader success. Between profound insights about creative authenticity and finding your path despite resistance, Rome and Dezz share lighthearted moments about family dynamics, generational differences, and the simple joys of life. Their natural chemistry creates a conversation that feels both deeply meaningful and comfortably familiar—just like sitting with old friends discussing life's biggest questions. Ready to find your sunflower field? Listen to this episode and discover where you truly belong. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text When singer-songwriter Cara Caterson joins Rome Davis on the No ID Podcast, what unfolds is an unexpectedly vulnerable peek behind the curtain of creative careers. Both performers strip away the glamor to reveal what audiences never see—Rome confessing to throwing up at gas stations before comedy sets, Cara admitting to hiding in venue bathrooms to calm her nerves. Their shared experiences create an immediate bond that allows the conversation to venture into rarely discussed territory. "I was wondering where the hell you went," Rome tells Cara, celebrating her recent single release "Big Joke" after watching her develop from open mic nights to professional recordings. Their discussion traces Cara's musical journey from church singing as a child to finding escape through music during a challenging upbringing, drawing inspiration from artists like Music Soulchild and Erykah Badu. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as they explore how today's entertainment landscape forces artists to compress their vision into ever-smaller packages. "Everything has to be a Reel or a Short now," Cara laments, noting how the industry's demand for 30-second content fragments makes it nearly impossible to present complete artistic expressions. Both agree that album lengths have shrunk from an hour to barely 30 minutes, reflecting our collective shrinking attention capacity. As they discuss moving between music scenes—Cara relocating from Virginia Beach to Baltimore—they touch on the delicate balance between competition and community. "There's a lot of betas trying to be alphas," Rome observes about industry climbers who don't understand collaboration's value. Cara offers aspiring musicians practical wisdom earned through experience: read extensively about the industry, prepare thoroughly behind the scenes, and only launch when truly ready. Ready to discover an artist on the rise? Follow Cara Caterson across social platforms and stream "Big Joke" wherever you get your music. If you enjoyed this conversation about the real challenges creative people face, subscribe to the No ID Podcast for more unfiltered discussions about making art in today's complex landscape. Find all my content here: https://romedavis.komi.io Support the show

Send us a text Dive into the intriguing journey of PepperKat, an artist who transitioned from the world of news production to become a prominent figure in adult entertainment. In this episode, she reveals the motivations that led her to pursue a career where creativity and financial independence reign supreme. PepperKat is not just an entertainer; she is a trailblazer who redefines the narratives around adult work. PepperKat shares her experiences as a cam model and phone sex operator, providing a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of her profession. Her insights unravel the complexities of connecting with customers, maintaining professional boundaries, and the necessity for creativity in crafting engaging adult content. With a background in film, she injects artistry into her work through dramatic storytelling, enhancing the viewer's experience beyond mere visuals. In an engaging discussion, PepperKat addresses the stigma surrounding adult entertainment, advocating for a more open and accepting dialogue about desires and fantasies. She pushes back against societal norms, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and understanding in a world often shrouded in judgment. This conversation not only showcases her personal journey but also addresses broader themes of sexuality, empowerment, and self-expression. Whether you're curious about the adult industry or looking for inspiration in your own pursuits, this episode is rich with insights and humor. Join us as we uncover the myths and realities of adult entertainment with the captivating Peppercat. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts with us! Support the show

Send us a text What if a simple wardrobe choice could change the way you're perceived on stage? Theodore Taylor, better known as the "Bowtie Guy," joins us to unravel the origins of his distinctive comedic persona. Inspired by a character from Doctor Who, the bow tie has become more than just an accessory—it's his comedic badge, helping him craft punchlines that linger long after the laughter fades. Theodore takes us on his journey from the Houston Improv, sharing how he navigates the expectations and stereotypes often placed on black comedians, and why adaptability is the secret sauce in today's comedy scene. Peek behind the curtain of stand-up comedy's unpredictable world as Theodore recounts his early career's comedic highs and lows. From a Michael Jackson joke that fell flat to a humorous saga involving a clean comedy show punchline mishap, Theodore's stories highlight the industry's camaraderie and the lessons learned from diverse audiences. We also explore the challenges and tensions within the comedy circuits, particularly for black comedians, and reflect on how societal dynamics shape a comedian's life both on and off stage. Theodore opens up about the essential ingredients for success in comedy: likability, consistency, and relatability. Through candid discussions, we examine how personal heroes can disappoint and how comedians balance their intellectual and misfit personas. Theodore also spotlights his special, "Theodore ME Taylor's Bowtie Guy," inviting listeners to follow his journey and connect with our comedy community. Whether you're a comedy aficionado or curious about the craft's inner workings, this episode promises insights and laughs in equal measure. Support the show

Send us a text Ever wondered what it’s like to mix stand-up comedy with a mean golf swing? Legendary comedian Buddy Lewis joins us, bringing his signature humor and a treasure trove of stories from his days on "Martin" to the quirky charm of interviewing him in his mom's living room. From hilarious behind-the-scenes moments with Martin Lawrence to the pride of his Howard University roots, Buddy's anecdotes are sure to keep you laughing. We also have a good chuckle about his claim to fame as one of the top comic golfers, underlining his dominance specifically in the comedy community. We shift gears and tackle the humorous misunderstandings in technology with a personal story involving a cordless phone debacle that highlights the generational tech gap. Our chat then takes a flavorful turn as we discuss the joys and risks of dining at hood spots, where the food is as authentic as the neighborhood is sketchy. Shared laughs and relatable stories about everyday experiences keep the conversation lively and engaging. Finally, we dive into the evolution of comedy promotion, reminiscing about the days of flyers and radio spots and comparing them to today's need for a robust social media presence. Buddy shares delightful memories from his time on "House Party 4" and his quirky collections, adding depth and nostalgia to our discussion. Wrapping up with mutual appreciation and humorous anecdotes, this episode promises a hearty mix of fun, nostalgia, and invaluable insights into the comedy world. https://noidmediallc.komi.io/ Support the show

Send us a text Ever wondered how stand-up comedy has transformed over the years? Join us as La Josh Preston, a humorous force from Southwest Virginia, takes us through his comedic journey from 1993 to now. La Josh has seen it all—from the bustling stages of Roanoke to the exhilarating experience of performing for Kenan Thompson. He talks about the evolution of comedy, highlighting how inclusivity has reshaped the field, urging comedians to abandon outdated norms like racism and bullying. Let La Josh's unique perspective enlighten you on the perseverance and authenticity required to thrive in the comedy world. Get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming anecdote about La Josh's unforgettable opportunity to perform with Kenan Thompson's Funniest Comics. Discover how a video clip with Kenan became his personal badge of honor, convincing his family that his trip wasn't just about gambling in Atlantic City. La Josh shares how his distinctive jokes drew the attention of producers and audiences alike, proving that originality can set you apart even among comedy legends. He also reflects on the profound influence of comedy icons like DL Hughley and Bernie Mac, whose ability to unite diverse audiences continues to inspire his work. Aspiring comedians, take note: La Josh brings valuable insights into the comedy grind, emphasizing the crucial role of open mics in honing one's skills. He shares tales of long drives for precious minutes of stage time and the relentless hustle to keep evolving as a comic. The Roanoke comedy scene, filled with challenges and camaraderie, has taught him the importance of staying true to oneself amidst competition and negativity. Join us to learn from La Josh's experiences and gather tips on making your mark in the ever-changing landscape of stand-up comedy. Support the show