JRE 2192 · August 21, 2024

Raanan Hershberg

comedypsychologybusiness

Who is Raanan Hershberg?

Raanan Hershberg is a standup comic. His new special, "It Could Have Been Better," is now available on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube, and other platforms.

Topics and Timestamps

01Raanan Hershberg discusses his journey in standup comedy and the challenges of building a career in the industry
02He talks about his new special 'It Could Have Been Better' available on multiple platforms including Amazon Prime and Apple TV
03Raanan shares insights about the comedy scene and how comedians develop their material and personas
04Discussion covers the differences between performing live comedy versus recorded specials
05He reflects on personal growth through comedy and the vulnerability required to be a successful standup
06Conversation touches on the business side of comedy and navigating the entertainment industry
▶Raanan discusses his new special 'It Could Have Been Better' and its availability across platforms0:00:05
▶Conversation about the vulnerability and risk involved in standup comedy0:15:00
▶Raanan shares insights about developing comedy material and the refinement process0:30:00
▶Discussion on how the comedy industry has changed with streaming platforms0:45:00
▶Raanan reflects on personal growth through comedy and connecting with audiences1:00:00

The Show

In JRE 2192, Joe Rogan sits down with standup comic Raanan Hershberg to discuss his career in comedy and his new special 'It Could Have Been Better.' Hershberg brings genuine energy to the conversation, talking about what it takes to survive and thrive in the comedy world.

One of the core topics is how comedians develop their material and the constant grind of refining jokes night after night. Hershberg discusses the vulnerability that comes with putting yourself out there as a standup, where you're essentially asking an audience to laugh at your observations and stories. He explains how bombing on stage is part of the process and how the best comedians learn to embrace failure as part of their development.

The conversation shifts to the modern comedy landscape and how platforms like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube have changed the game for comedians. Unlike previous generations who had to get on television or tour extensively, comedians now have more direct access to audiences. Hershberg's special 'It Could Have Been Better' is available across multiple platforms, reflecting this new reality.

Roe and Hershberg discuss what makes a special work versus what works in a live setting. Recording a special presents unique challenges because you lose some of the organic energy of a live show, but you gain the ability to really perfect the material. Hershberg talks about the process of selecting material for his special and how you want to represent your best work while still staying true to your voice as a comedian.

Throughout the episode, Hershberg demonstrates the kind of introspection and honesty that makes great comedy. He's not just telling jokes, he's examining why things are funny and what the deeper human truths are beneath the surface humor. This is what separates mediocre comedians from great ones.