JRE 2131 · April 5, 2024

Brian Simpson

Who is Brian Simpson?

Brian Simpson is a stand-up comic who hosts the "Bottom of the Barrel" improvised comedy show at the Comedy Mothership and his own podcast, "BS with Brian Simpson." Watch his new special, "Brian Simpson: Live from the Mothership," on Netflix.

TLDR — Key Topics and Moments

01Brian Simpson discusses his comedy career and the evolution of his act at the Comedy Mothership
02Conversation covers the improvisational nature of stand-up comedy and how comics develop material
03Brian talks about hosting the 'Bottom of the Barrel' improv show and his podcast 'BS with Brian Simpson'
04Discussion about the comedy scene in Los Angeles and the current state of live comedy
05Brian's Netflix special 'Live from the Mothership' and what went into creating it
06The creative process behind stand-up comedy and how comedians find their unique voice

The Show

Joe brings on stand-up comic Brian Simpson to talk about comedy, the Mothership comedy club, and his journey in the entertainment world. Brian has built a solid reputation hosting improv shows and running his own podcast, and now has a Netflix special out that captures his live performances. The conversation dives into what it takes to be a working comic in today's landscape, the grind of developing material night after night, and how the comedy scene has evolved. Joe and Brian discuss the creative process of building a comedy set, the importance of stage time, and how comedians navigate the balance between writing structured material and leaving room for spontaneity that keeps performances fresh. The episode captures the kind of shop talk that happens between two people who understand the craft of making people laugh, with insights into what separates working comics from people who just tell jokes. Brian shares stories from the Mothership and the various characters that populate the LA comedy scene. The discussion touches on the reality of touring, performing multiple shows a night, and the mental and physical toll of being a full-time comedian. Throughout the conversation, Joe and Brian riff on comedy philosophy, the importance of authenticity in your material, and how the best comedy comes from real observations and experiences rather than manufactured premises.