Industry Standard w/ Barry Katz

In this episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, viral YouTube pioneer Ed Bassmaster shares his incredible journey from working retail at an AT&T store to becoming one of the most recognizable character comedians on the internet. He dives deep into the origins of his iconic alter egos and creations like Always Teste, Chip Diamond, Skippy, Tequila, and Mumbles—many inspired by real-life encounters in Philly. Ed reflects on ...

In this gripping episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, legendary actor Michael Madsen opens up like never before. From almost missing out on his iconic role as Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs to improvising unforgettable moments on set, Madsen shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from working with Quentin Tarantino, Harvey Keitel, Jennifer Tilly, and many more. He reflects on how Hollywood typecast him into dark, psych...

In Memory of Peter Engel June 30, 1936 - March 4, 2025In this classic rerelease episode, Legendary TV producer Peter Engel joins Barry Katz to share wild stories from his career, spanning his early days around Saturday Night Live to creating the iconic TV hits like Saved by the Bell, California Dreams, and City Guys. Engel reveals how he discovered stars like Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Tiffani-Amber Thiessen, Elizabeth Berkley, and Mario...

In this emotional and insightful episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz sits down with comedy club mogul Cris Italia to talk about building “The Stand,” coping with loss, and shaping the careers of comics like Pete Davidson, Andrew Schulz, and Nikki Glaser. Italia reflects on the influence of late comedy legends including Patrice O’Neal, Greg Giraldo, and Mike DeStefano, as well as the enduring inspiration of his late business pa...

In this powerful AMA episode, legendary comedy manager Barry Katz breaks down what separates the good from the unforgettable in stand-up comedy. He shares why having a distinct voice — one that’s instantly recognizable — is non-negotiable for any comic who wants to rise above the noise. Barry dives into how comedians like Tony Hinchcliffe found success by adapting when the industry wouldn’t, and why regret is a useless emotion when...

In this episode of Industry Standard, comedian and actor Adam Ray—best known for his spot-on Dr. Phil impression—opens up about the defining moments of his childhood that led him to a career in comedy. From being an overweight kid with the nickname “Quick Fat” and growing up with divorced parents, to discovering the power of impressions and laughter, Adam shares how humor became his outlet. He also discusses the behind-the-scenes s...

Legendary sportscaster Chris Myers has been the voice behind some of the biggest moments in sports — from Super Bowls and World Series to the Olympics and beyond. But in this episode of INDUSTRY STANDARD, he opens up like never before. Chris takes us behind the mic and into the pressure of national broadcasts, recounting what it felt like to freeze on-air during the Super Bowl with 100 million people watching — and how he bounced b...

Barry Katz sits with film and television director, Gil Junger (10 Things I Hate About You, Ellen), for a deep conversation on the mental blocks that actors and artists face in the entertainment industry. Gil shares what he looks for in actors, as well as incredible stories about Heath Ledger's and Julia Stiles' auditions, working with Oprah, and directing Ellen's coming-out episode. He offers impactful insights on the c...

In this episode, talent manager Barry Katz sits with stand-up comedian and actor Paul Rodriguez to discuss Paul's path to success in the entertainment business, from his desire to get out of Compton, to working as a doorman at the Comedy Store and getting noticed by Mitzi Shore, to becoming one of The Original Latin Kings of Comedy, and appearing in major motion pictures. Paul talks about working with Clint Eastwood, Michael Ma...

In Memory of Marty Callner August 25, 1946-March 17, 2025

In this classic and exclusive episode of Industry Standard, Marty Callner shares the story of his rise to show business success, from beginning as a local news director in Ohio, then on to directing Celtics broadcasts, before moving to Los Angeles where he directed numerous classic comedy specials for comedian like Robin Williams, Chris Rock, George Carlin, Jerry Seinfeld, an...

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz has an insightful conversation with successful network executive Cheryl Bayer about her career. From orchestrating the success of shows like Baywatch, Sex and the City, and Family Guy, to connecting with actors like Rob Lowe, Chris Rock, Pamela Anderson, and more at the beginning of their careers. Blueprint for Successbarrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, directo...

Comedy talent manager Barry Katz provides a beacon of tough love and knowledge for anyone trying to navigate the extremely tough industry of stand-up comedy and entertainment. In this Ask Me Anything episode of Industry Standard, Barry takes your questions, and shares what makes a good stand-up premise, the road to success in stand-up comedy, and what makes people stand out as comics and entertainers. Blueprint for Success (https:/...

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz chats with comedian and actor JB Smoove, as he opens up about the mindset that’s fueled his success. JB shares how his "Teflon mentality" keeps him focused on self-growth, and how he navigates opportunities—turning moments that seem like luck into career-shaping moves. He shares stories from his youth - growing up in a family that always kept him on his feet comedically, h...

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz sits down with comedian Pablo Francisco for an in-depth conversation about his journey in comedy. Pablo shares how he landed his first agent at rock bottom, his proudest moment performing for just eight people who changed his life, and the time he unknowingly took GHB and ended up in the hospital. He also opens up about the struggles of addiction, how he helped a friend fight for re...

Talent manager Barry Katz sits down with esteemed writer Perry Rein for an insightful conversation. Rein shares his journey, working odd jobs such as Al Pacino’s driver to getting fired on his birthday from his first big PA gig to winning an Emmy. Rein found his way through a writing assistant job and with the help of long time collaborator and partner, Gigi McCreery. He imparts words of wisdom every young and aspiring writer who h...

In this episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz, Emmy nominated comedian talent manager and TV/Film Producer imparts wisdom onto those who wish to pursue a career in entertainment. Barry shares with his viewers common misconceptions about the comedy industry, advice for new comedians, and how to find a balance when writing jokes.

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⁠⁠Industry Standard Video Podcast with Barry Katz⁠⁠

Barry Katz Entertainmen...

In this classic episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz sits with stand-up comedian and podcaster Marc Maron for an engaging and candid conversation, reflecting on their early days in the New York comedy scene, and Marc's success and evolution in stand-up and pioneering the podcast format with his WTF podcast. The episode also dives into some unresolved history, as Barry and Marc address lingering tensions from their past. Marc s...