JRE 2178 · July 19, 2024

Sam Morril

comedybusinessphilosophy

Who is Sam Morril?

Sam Morril is a stand-up comic, writer, and actor. He's the co-host of the "We Might Be Drunk" podcast with Mark Normand. Catch his new special, "You've Changed" on Prime Video.

Topics and Timestamps

01Sam Morril discusses his comedy special 'You've Changed' on Prime Video and what inspired the material
02Conversation about the evolution of stand-up comedy and how comics adapt their material over time
03Sam talks about co-hosting the 'We Might Be Drunk' podcast with Mark Normand and their dynamic
04Discussion about the comedy scene, touring, and the pressures of being a working comedian
05Sam shares stories from his experiences in the comedy world and interactions with other comedians
06Joe and Sam discuss comedy writing process, audience engagement, and what makes material land
▶Sam discusses his new special 'You've Changed' on Prime Video0:00:00
▶Conversation about how comedians evolve their material and perspectives0:15:00
▶Sam talks about touring and the reality of making money as a working comedian0:30:00
▶Discussion of the 'We Might Be Drunk' podcast with Mark Normand and their chemistry0:45:00
▶Sam and Joe discuss how the comedy landscape has changed with social media1:00:00

The Show

Joe sits down with Sam Morril, a stand-up comic who's become a fixture in the comedy world through his work on stage, his acting roles, and his podcast with Mark Normand called 'We Might Be Drunk.' Sam's new special, 'You've Changed,' is available on Prime Video, and it represents his latest effort to capture his comedic voice during a specific moment in his career.

The conversation touches on how comedians evolve their material and perspectives over time. Sam discusses what goes into creating a special, the pressure of recording something that will be out forever, and how his sensibilities have changed as he's gotten older. There's real talk about the grind of touring, which is still the backbone of making money as a comedian, and how even successful comics have to constantly be on the road hitting clubs and theaters.

Sam and Joe dive into the dynamics of the 'We Might Be Drunk' podcast with Mark Normand. The show has built a genuine following because of the chemistry between the two hosts and their unfiltered conversations. Sam talks about how the podcast differs from his stand-up and acting work, allowing for a different kind of creative expression where he and Mark can riff and explore topics without the structure required by a tight five-minute set or scripted scene.

The discussion naturally flows into the state of comedy itself. There's acknowledgment of how the landscape has shifted, how social media affects comics' careers differently now than it did even five years ago, and what audiences are actually looking for when they go see live comedy. Sam shares insights about what resonates with people and how comedians have to stay authentic to their voice while also being aware of the cultural moment they're performing in.

Throughout the episode, there's the casual, free-flowing energy that makes JRE work. Joe and Sam aren't trying to prove anything. They're just talking shop about comedy, life, the weird parts of being in entertainment, and what it takes to actually make it work as a career. It's the kind of conversation that will resonate with people who either do comedy or have genuine appreciation for the craft.