My First Joke with Monty Scott

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with stand-up comedian Monty Scott to explore his journey through the world of comedy—starting with their shared roots in Scarborough. Though Monty now lives in East York, his heart still beats in Scarborough, where his creative sensibilities were shaped and where his show 60 Seconds from Scarborough was born (and may yet return).

From gritty open mics to oddball venues like karate dojos and Montreal basements, Monty shares the wild ride of building a comedy career. He reflects on starting late in the game, finding his voice, and performing alongside longtime friend and fellow comic Dave Merheje.

Karim praises comedians as real-life superheroes, and Monty doesn’t disagree—especially after quitting his day job to go all-in on comedy. He talks about the early struggles of amateur night at Yuk Yuk’s, his evolution as a performer, and the importance of embracing silence on stage.

This episode also shines a light on under-recognized Canadian comedic talent, with shoutouts to Nick Reynoldson and others grinding it out north of the border.

🎤 Topics Covered:

• Growing up near Scarborough and its creative influence

• The origins and future of 60 Seconds from Scarborough

• Performing in unusual venues

• Early stand-up experiences and bombing with style

• Finding comedic voice and pacing

• Life after quitting the 9-to-5

• Shoutouts to Canada’s underrated comedy scene

📌 Mentioned in the Episode:

• Dave Merheje

• Yuk Yuk’s Amateur Night

• Nick Reynoldson

🗓️ Don’t miss this candid, funny, and insightful conversation about finding your path and your punchlines.

Follow Monty Scott on his website: https://www.montyscott.com/