Episode 31: How to Write One-Liners That Actually Work

Crafting Comedy in 10 Words or Less

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dissect the often misunderstood tool of the one-liner—and why every comic should learn how to use them, even if they don’t rely on them as a primary style.

Dobie opens with a wild story about performing at a women’s prison, revealing how a perfect one-liner landed at the riskiest moment. Vince breaks down how he builds trust quickly during high-stakes shows like cancer benefits and corporate gigs, and how one-liners have saved him more than once. Together, they explore how quick jokes serve as palate cleansers, punch-up tools, and audience trust builders.

Whether you're a comic, speaker, or just a fan of comedy, this episode shows that sometimes the quickest line is the smartest play.

Key Points Discussed:

• When and why to use one-liners, even if you're a storyteller or ranter

• The role of one-liners in riffing, crowd work, and audience trust

• Personal stories from wild shows: prison gigs, benefit nights, and corporate returns

• Examples from legends like Rodney Dangerfield, Mitch Hedberg, and George Carlin

• Why mastering misdirection and brevity can take your act to the next level