In this episode Ollie Horn is joined by Stuart Laws. Stuart is an acclaimed stand-up comedian, director, and comedy producer.

They talk about:

• Directing live comedy, filming stand-up specials, and visual storytelling techniques.
• The creative mechanics, economics, and chaos of running concept Fringe shows.
• How venue layout, room setup, and environment shape audience psychology.
• Audience interaction, performance etiquette, and connecting with neurodivergent crowds.
• The role of a director in structuring solo stand-up and storytelling shows.
• How much Mr Blobby costs.

They recommend:

• Kate Hammer
• Jennifer Jane
• John Kearns
• Elouise Eftos
• Li Jin Hao
• Bella Hull
• Sam Eley
• Phil Ellis

In this episode Ollie Horn is joined by David Hoare. David is an award-winning musical comedian bringing the show How to Live to 100 this year.

They talk about:

• The learning curve of writing multi-year Fringe shows and comedy "boot camp."
• The concept and strategy behind the "Coward's Hour" versus full one-hour shows.
• PR, joke list submissions, and how national press coverage actually works at the festival.
• The financial realities, tax returns, and administrative side of freelance comedy.
• Handling gig mishaps, crowd work, and the craft of reading an audience.

They recommend:

• Chelsea Birkby
• James O'Donoghue
• Paul Hilleard
• Alex Kitson
• James Trickey
• Jordan Brooks
• Tom Neenan
• Andrew White

In this episode Ollie Horn is joined by Nathan Cassidy. Nathan is an award-winning stand-up comedian and founder of the ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards.

They talk about:

• The financial realities and business models of the Edinburgh Fringe.
• Review scandals and promotional stunts.
• Stand-up comedy as an art form versus viral social media clips.
• The purpose and structure of the Ish Edinburgh Comedy Awards.

They recommend:

• Elf Lyons
• Gary Starr
• Julia Masli
• Paul Foot
• Phil Ellis
• Mark Ford