There It Is

We talk to our dear friend, Hailey McAfee, a writer, director, and actor in Los Angeles! In this episode, actor, director, and writer Hailey McAfee joins the show to discuss her career in theater. Hailey shares her journey from studying theater, to moving to NYC, to getting into New York's improv scene. Jason also talks to her about her recent success with a modern re-imagining of 'Mother Courage and Her Children,' her experiences with dramatic and comedic roles, the challenges of live performances, solo shows, and the creative process behind devising new plays through dramatic improv. It's an engaging and fun chat between pals that delves into the complexities and joys of the performing arts. Instagram: @HaileyMcAfee, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talk to comedian and video creator, Willy Appelman, about his work and his show, 'A Gaggle!' We had a great chat with comedian and creator Willy who delves into his journey through the world of improv, starting from his early days at Second City and Magnet Theater, to making viral TikTok videos and producing sketch comedy for Business Insider and Fast Company. He shares insights into his methodologies, the importance of physicality in performances, and the significance of community and collaboration. Willy also talks about balancing a creative career and family life in Vermont and how family has impacted his comedy like his one-person show 'A Gaggle!' Tickets for 'A Gaggle' - Thursday, 7/24: asylumnyc.com/the-conductor TikTok: @Appelman, @JasonFarrToks YouTube: @AcceptAllCookiesComedy Instagram: @Wappelman, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Improvisers (and friends of the show) Greg Tavares and Amber Nash have written a book called "Improv for Couples." It written to help couples spark or rekindle their sense of play. Jason and "Wife of the Show," Justina, take you through the first lesson in the book to give you a feel for it. It's a simple, fun chat about the bits and silly gags they've done to make each other laugh throughout their relationship. It's a nice trip down memory lane and gives a good idea of how the book can help you and your partner laugh together. Buy Improv for Couples: https://a.co/d/haWrPx8 Instagram: @Theatre99, @AmberCNash, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @AmberCNash, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode, the "Of the Show Gang" talk Summer Movies and celebrate Jaws and Back to the Future! Wife of the Show, Justina, Brother of the Show, Trey, and Best Friend of the Show, Rob, join Jason to talk all that POP about the anniversaries of Jaws and Back to the Future, the big movies of the Summer so far, make predictions on what will be this Summer's big movie, and discuss the New York Times' list of the Best Movies of the 21st Century. It's a fun chat for all you film buffs out there! The NYT's list: www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/movies/best-movies-21st-century.html Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talked to award-winning comedian, Tom Hearn! Tom Hearn is an award-winning sketch comedian, actor, drag performer and director living in New York City. Tom shares his journey from growing up in New Brunswick, Canada, to tearing up comedy stages across North America. Tom shares how his love for theater started early and how joining an improv team in high school opened the door to a lifelong passion for comedy. Tom talks about auditioning for musical theater, performing at Bad Dog and Second City, and creating sketch shows. We talk about the power of character work, the differences between performing on stage and on camera, the real challenges of touring and promoting live shows, and his new comedy album, "Gay Garbage." It’s a thoughtful, funny, and inspiring look at the life of a multi-talented performer. www.isthattomhearn.com YouTube: @TomHearn, @ThereItIs TikTok: @isthattomhearn4real, @jasonfarrtoks Instagram: @isthattomhearn, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Facebook: @isthattomhearn, @ThereItIsPod  Thr

We talked to improviser and instructor, Jamie Rivera! Jason and Jamie met at the Magnet Theater where Jamie is an instructor. He's also a performer on one of the theater's flagship shows, The Armando Diaz Experience (aka ADX). Jamie tells Jason about how he got into improv, what he learned performing on a cruise ship, and how that experience impacted him. The two also talk about the importance of not getting so worked up about things at the top of an improv scene you're in and how they work through some of the challenges of instructing an improv class. It's a funny and informative chat! For more on classes and shows at the Magnet: https://magnettheater.com  Instagram: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Facebook: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talk to author John Vorhaus about creativity and comedy! In this episode, we chat with the prolific author and writer John Vorhaus. John shares insights from his extensive career in sitcom writing and teaching. He discusses his journey into writing for sitcoms, developing 'Married with Children' overseas, his significant teaching endeavors, and his thoughts on managing creative anxiety. John emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in creative pursuits and offers practical advice on improving one's craft. His reflections on balancing work and ego, setting achievable goals, and maintaining creative authenticity make for a very enlightening conversation. https://johnvorhaus.com www.amazon.com/author/jv Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode we talk to the amazing singer/songwriter, Brooke White! We absolutely love her! In this insightful chat, Brooke White and Jason discuss their longstanding online friendship and delve into Brooke's experiences since she first blew up on the scene, her creative journey, and the challenges she faced balancing multiple projects and personal life. Brooke shares insights on the discomfort inherent in the creative process, the evolution of her music career, her approach to creating, and her thoughts on social media's impact on artists. They also touch on her ventures into acting and the importance of prioritizing health and self-care. Instagram: @RealBrookeWhite, @superGOODthings, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Author and storyteller Adam Linn joins us for a thrilling conversation! Adam shares his fascinating journey in comedy and storytelling. Adam recounts his start in the entertainment industry, inspired by NYU classmates, and details how he found his comedic voice through mentorship and personal challenges. He discusses his show 'Sped Kid,' which reflects his experiences as an outsider navigating life's complexities. Adam also explores how his struggles with sobriety informed his candid and humorous storytelling approach. It's an engaging conversation about comedy, personal growth, and artistic expression. Support SPED Kid going to Edinburgh Fringe: https://gofund.me/8cf9e4cf AdamLinn.com Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Donna Steele joins Jason to discuss...THE STATE OF COMEDY! In this episode, comedian Donna Steele catches up with Jason to talk about what they're tired of seeing in improv and more. She discusses her journey in the improv scene and performing at UCB with various Harold teams. The two share insights into the importance of projecting the team's energy when introing shows and the pitfalls of common improv moves like playing dead bodies or using exaggerated gestures. They also delve into the philosophy of creating an engaging monoscene, focusing on authenticity and character relationships. Donna touches on the value of being both a strong support player and a creative instigator on stage. It's a fun chat! https://www.donnasteele.com  Instagram: @DonnaASteele, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode, comedian Amanda Maryanna Gordon shares her journey through comedy and content creation. Amanda discusses starting out in comedy, why she studied Film and TV at NYU Tisch, and the evolution of her YouTube channel that she started in sixth grade. She opens up about her transition from beauty videos to comedic content and reflects on the differences she's noticed about creating content for YouTube versus for the stage. Amanda also talks about her short films, the impact of influencers in New York City, and her thoughts on the creative process behind her YouTube videos. A fascinating conversation about balancing humor and serious topics in content creation. Early Bird tickets to Alexis Gay's Unprofessional at Caveat on May 29th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/alexis-gay-unprofessional-tickets-1335738733509 YouTube: @amandamaryanna Instagram: @amandapanda767, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://

We're talking all that POP with a new bracket of the best SNL hosts! The "Of the Show Fellas" are back joining Jason to talk about their favorite hosts of Saturday Night Live! PLUS, we have a new bracket and it's one of our toughest! They fellas show love to some all-time great hosts of SNL and select their top pick for best host. It's not easy task as there are so many great actors, entertainers, and comedians who have hosted the show that not all of them get make it on the bracket! It's a fun chat! Let's see YOUR favorite hosts! Fill out your own bracket and share it with us on socials with the hashtag #BestSNLHosts: https://static.wixstatic.com/media/53066f_bebeefd8fcba4eab99b0196b98a18ce7~mv2.png Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We were joined by comedian Evan Forde Barden for a great talk on pursuing comedy. Evan joins the podcast to discuss his extensive 21-year journey in improv and sketch comedy. Evan shares his early days doing improv at Fairfield University and his subsequent experiences with renowned groups like 'Bodywork' and 'Young Douglass.' He opens up about navigating the improv scene in New York, his tenure with Improv Boston, Magnet Theater, and UCB, and how he tries to survive on stage. Evan also talks about his show, 'The Power Joker,' a comedy talk show hosted by a fictional Robert Moses (played by previous guest, Sam Rogal), the evolution of his comedic voice, and more! YouTube: @YoungDouglas, @ThereItIs Instagram: @YoungDouglas, @ThePowerJoker, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode, we pay our respects to the legendary actor Val Kilmer. Jason's favorite actor has always been Val Kilmer, thanks to his all-time favorite movie: Real Genius. To honor Kilmer and his legacy, we dive into conversations about his impact on film and on us personally. “Best Friend of the Show,” Rob, joins Jason first to discuss many of Kilmer’s iconic performances. Jason also chats with writer Stephanie Streisand (The Mighty Ones, The Detour), a friend of the show, about their shared love for Real Genius, Top Secret!, and how Kilmer’s performances influenced her comedy. We end the episode with “Brother of the Show,” Trey. It’s a heartwarming and fun tribute we hope all Val Kilmer fans find some comfort in. Instagram: @StephStreis, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics   Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Will Jacobs joins us to talk comedy, writing, and his web series! Jason talks to Will about writing plays, what he thinks about his perfectionist college approach to writing now, and his moving to New York City to study improv. Will has a very robust improv career and has studied at all the major theaters in NYC. He currently performs regularly at The Magnet and UCB. He talks about what he learned going from improv theater to improv theater to study, why he loves it so much, his web series Olympus: A Retrospective, and much more! It's a fun chat. www.youtube.com/@olympusretro www.willjacobslovesyou.com Instagram: @SadWilliam_, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  TikTok: @SadWilliam_, @JasonFarrToks Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talk to comedian and founder of Gold Comedy, Lynn Harris! Lynn shares the story of how a ski trip became a pivotal moment in her getting into comedy and ultimately starting Gold Comedy. She sheds light on the persistent challenges women face in comedy, the importance of creating inclusive opportunities, and the impactful work Gold Comedy is doing to support and nurture new talent. This episode is a lively and funny deep dive into Lynn's personal anecdotes, professional insights, and the transformative power of empowering voices in comedy. It's such a great talk. https://tinyurl.com/GoldComedyPitch Instagram: @GoldComedy, @LateBloomers.lol, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We had a great chat with writer and comedian Howard Finkelstein! Howard is a creative director at the ad agency, Mischief. He delves into his decade-long journey in improv and advertising. Howard shares his experience balancing grounded and silly elements on stage, his hilarious story of how his wife prompted him to pursue comedy, and the process behind creating a notable Super Bowl commercial. He also discusses the parallels between generating ideas for ads and improv scenes and offers insights on handling creativity and failure across both worlds. It's an engaging conversation! https://howfink.com Join our March Madness group on ESPN! https://tinyurl.com/There-It-Is-Pod Instagram: @howfink, @nflfantherapy, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this captivating episode, we talk to comedian Jonah Nigh! Jonah is a former opera singer turned stand-up comic and he shares his extraordinary journey from classical music training to the comedy stage. He details the pivotal throat surgery that forced him to pivot careers, how he found relief, and the challenges of transitioning into comedy. Jonah also discusses the nuanced differences in performing for diverse audiences across the globe, the importance of meticulous preparation, and how his background in music has influenced his comedy craft. He also talks about being on the show 'Baking It,' his involvement in philanthropy, and how he balances his stand-up career with his role at Juilliard. Lots of great stuff in this great chat! www.jonahnigh.com TikTok: @NighJonah, @JasonFarrToks Instagram: @NighJonah, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics 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 the Oscars! Brother of the Show, Trey, and Best Friend of the Show, Rob, join Jason for a fun talk about this year's Oscars telecast! They start out at the end of the broadcast with the announcement of Best Picture then they go into talk about what they loved about Conan O'Brien's hosting, what they loved and didn't love about the telecast, the winners and losers, and their normal nonsense! Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Reunited and it feels so good! Dear friends of the show Seann Cantatore and Nicole Pascaretta join us to talk about collaborating with friends! Seann and Nicole have a unique bond and use it to create incredible work together. It only made sense to have them on to talk about how they collaborate! Jason gets them talking about what their process is, how they handle self-criticism, and more. It, as to be expected, is a delightful chat! Gets up to 48% off your first subscription of Magic Mind or 20% off one time purchases at: https://www.magicmind.com/THEREITISPOD20 Instagram: @seanncantatore, @nicole.pascaretta, @bringyourown.bob, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @seanncantatoree, @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis