There It Is

We talked to NYC improv staple, Jon Monje! Jason talks to improviser Jon Monje about his extensive journey in the world of improv. Jon shares his experiences starting at UCB in 2008, becoming a significant figure at the theater, and transitioning to the Magnet Theater post-pandemic. They discuss the unique, positive community at Magnet, the contrasting phases of improv enthusiasm over the years, and Jon's notable moments, such as performing on Late Night with Seth Meyers. Monje reflects on the valuable lessons he's learned, including the importance of staying true to oneself on stage, and more. It's a fun and entertaining episode. Instagram: @JonMonje, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode we take it all the way back to 17th-century London to discuss the case of John Twyn and how it relates to America today. Twyn's story is about the harsh control of King Charles II and the Church of England and the restraints their control posed on religion, speech, and the press. We learn how those crackdowns ultimately influenced the freedoms enshrined in the America’s First Amendment. Along the way, we explore what “freedom of speech” really means, how it’s sometimes misunderstood, and why it's important to understand history our principles. Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We have a great talk with NYC-based comedian and improviser Rob Penty. Jason and Rob discuss their time together on the team Glitter at the Magnet Theater and Rob's other Magnet improv teams, Sexy Baby and Wrath. Rob reflects on his initial foray into standup comedy and why he eventually gravitated towards improv, highlighting the supportive community aspect of improv versus the often isolating standup scene. He delves into his journey through different comedy formats, and provides insights into his philosophies on improv and comedy. Rob also shares thoughtful anecdotes about storytelling and the various techniques and methodologies he applies in when doing monologues. It's a great talk! www.actuallyitsrobpentydotorg.com Instagram: @RPenty, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @RPenty, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this Pop Talk, Jason sits down with 'Of the Show Fellas,' Trey and Rob, to discuss a variety of pop culture topics. They dive into the 'Scrubs' revival, sharing their excitement for returning cast members and reflecting on the original series. The conversation then shifts to 'Saturday Night Live,' examining the recent cast changes and new additions. Finally, they discuss whether franchises should strictly stick to canon using how movie franchises like 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones' handled canon and continuity over the years as an example. It's an fun discussion filled with humor, nostalgia, and thoughtful insights. Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode, we chat with comedian, actress, and musician Maxi Witrak. Maxi shares her journey from entertainment journey that led her to Los Angeles to pursue acting, her unexpected foray into standup comedy, and the remarkable shift from being an equestrian to exploring her creative passions. She discusses the challenges of balancing multiple artistic pursuits, the joy of teaching stand-up and seeing students discover, and the importance of playfulness in comedy. Maxi also talks about her experience in a band, why she stepped back from her band, and the evolving atmosphere in comedy clubs. It's an insightful look into the life of a multi-talented entertainer. Instagram:@MaddMaxi, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this mini ep, Jason addresses the concept of separating art from the artist when the latter faces allegations of misconduct. Jason explores how people often respond by either dismissing or defending the artist based on their work and provides insights into the complexity of continuing to enjoy art when its creator's actions are known. He suggests a thoughtful, principled approach to how you engage with work from problematic figures. He also discusses the responsibility we as artists have. Let's have a thoughtful discourse. Some articles to consider reading: The Complex Politics of Separating the Art from the Artist: theaggie.org/2024/02/27/the-complex-politics-of-separating-art-from-the-artist/ The False Comfort of Separating the Art from the Artist: https://www.thegazelle.org/issue/262/the-false-comfort-of-separating-the-art-from-the-artist Interview with "Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma" author Claire Dederer: https://www.gq.com/story/claire-dederer-monsters-interview Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrP

In this mini episode, Jason shares practical steps on how to build a comedy community, whether in a town with no existing scene or an established one. Jason emphasizes identifying what the community lacks, understanding your own style, the importance of getting people involved, and establishing trust within the community. The episode also honors the late Frank Spitznagel, a pillar in the musical improv community, as an example of successful community building. Source material: www.cmxhub.com/blog/build-a-thriving-community-from-scratch Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this mini episode, Jason talks about how truth is utilized in comedy, namely in improv. Truth in Comedy is one of the main principles in improv, but the idea of using or telling the truth is not only familiar to improv. The truth, what we all know is real or what we know to be happening is something you have to get right for comedy to land. Jason mostly discusses improv, but he also talks about how using the truth can play out in various forms of comedy like stand-up and even late night TV. He also discusses how using your truth can be helpful in your work. Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this special 400th episode, Brother of the Show, Trey takes over as host to interview Jason Farr! They discuss Jason's early life that led to him wanting to be an actor, how he was first exposed to the stage, performing comedy when he was in elementary school, and what he learned in the Theater and Mass Communications department at Winthrop University. Jason shares insights about his time working in radio, his transition to acting and then stand-up comedy, and his formal introduction to improv through Alchemy Comedy. He also talks about moving to New York, joining and teaching at the Magnet Theater, and meeting Wife of the show, Justina, through improv. The episode concludes with reflections on the podcast's milestones and hopes for the future, including potential high-profile guests and continuing to grow the 'There It Is' community. Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee

We talk to our dear friend, Hailey McAfee, a writer, director, and actor in Los Angeles! In this episode, actor, director, and writer Hailey McAfee joins the show to discuss her career in theater. Hailey shares her journey from studying theater, to moving to NYC, to getting into New York's improv scene. Jason also talks to her about her recent success with a modern re-imagining of 'Mother Courage and Her Children,' her experiences with dramatic and comedic roles, the challenges of live performances, solo shows, and the creative process behind devising new plays through dramatic improv. It's an engaging and fun chat between pals that delves into the complexities and joys of the performing arts. Instagram: @HaileyMcAfee, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talk to comedian and video creator, Willy Appelman, about his work and his show, 'A Gaggle!' We had a great chat with comedian and creator Willy who delves into his journey through the world of improv, starting from his early days at Second City and Magnet Theater, to making viral TikTok videos and producing sketch comedy for Business Insider and Fast Company. He shares insights into his methodologies, the importance of physicality in performances, and the significance of community and collaboration. Willy also talks about balancing a creative career and family life in Vermont and how family has impacted his comedy like his one-person show 'A Gaggle!' Tickets for 'A Gaggle' - Thursday, 7/24: asylumnyc.com/the-conductor TikTok: @Appelman, @JasonFarrToks YouTube: @AcceptAllCookiesComedy Instagram: @Wappelman, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Improvisers (and friends of the show) Greg Tavares and Amber Nash have written a book called "Improv for Couples." It written to help couples spark or rekindle their sense of play. Jason and "Wife of the Show," Justina, take you through the first lesson in the book to give you a feel for it. It's a simple, fun chat about the bits and silly gags they've done to make each other laugh throughout their relationship. It's a nice trip down memory lane and gives a good idea of how the book can help you and your partner laugh together. Buy Improv for Couples: https://a.co/d/haWrPx8 Instagram: @Theatre99, @AmberCNash, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @AmberCNash, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode, the "Of the Show Gang" talk Summer Movies and celebrate Jaws and Back to the Future! Wife of the Show, Justina, Brother of the Show, Trey, and Best Friend of the Show, Rob, join Jason to talk all that POP about the anniversaries of Jaws and Back to the Future, the big movies of the Summer so far, make predictions on what will be this Summer's big movie, and discuss the New York Times' list of the Best Movies of the 21st Century. It's a fun chat for all you film buffs out there! The NYT's list: www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/movies/best-movies-21st-century.html Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talked to award-winning comedian, Tom Hearn! Tom Hearn is an award-winning sketch comedian, actor, drag performer and director living in New York City. Tom shares his journey from growing up in New Brunswick, Canada, to tearing up comedy stages across North America. Tom shares how his love for theater started early and how joining an improv team in high school opened the door to a lifelong passion for comedy. Tom talks about auditioning for musical theater, performing at Bad Dog and Second City, and creating sketch shows. We talk about the power of character work, the differences between performing on stage and on camera, the real challenges of touring and promoting live shows, and his new comedy album, "Gay Garbage." It’s a thoughtful, funny, and inspiring look at the life of a multi-talented performer. www.isthattomhearn.com YouTube: @TomHearn, @ThereItIs TikTok: @isthattomhearn4real, @jasonfarrtoks Instagram: @isthattomhearn, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Facebook: @isthattomhearn, @ThereItIsPod  Thr

We talked to improviser and instructor, Jamie Rivera! Jason and Jamie met at the Magnet Theater where Jamie is an instructor. He's also a performer on one of the theater's flagship shows, The Armando Diaz Experience (aka ADX). Jamie tells Jason about how he got into improv, what he learned performing on a cruise ship, and how that experience impacted him. The two also talk about the importance of not getting so worked up about things at the top of an improv scene you're in and how they work through some of the challenges of instructing an improv class. It's a funny and informative chat! For more on classes and shows at the Magnet: https://magnettheater.com  Instagram: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Facebook: @MagnetTheater, @ThereItIsPod  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

We talk to author John Vorhaus about creativity and comedy! In this episode, we chat with the prolific author and writer John Vorhaus. John shares insights from his extensive career in sitcom writing and teaching. He discusses his journey into writing for sitcoms, developing 'Married with Children' overseas, his significant teaching endeavors, and his thoughts on managing creative anxiety. John emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in creative pursuits and offers practical advice on improving one's craft. His reflections on balancing work and ego, setting achievable goals, and maintaining creative authenticity make for a very enlightening conversation. https://johnvorhaus.com www.amazon.com/author/jv Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode we talk to the amazing singer/songwriter, Brooke White! We absolutely love her! In this insightful chat, Brooke White and Jason discuss their longstanding online friendship and delve into Brooke's experiences since she first blew up on the scene, her creative journey, and the challenges she faced balancing multiple projects and personal life. Brooke shares insights on the discomfort inherent in the creative process, the evolution of her music career, her approach to creating, and her thoughts on social media's impact on artists. They also touch on her ventures into acting and the importance of prioritizing health and self-care. Instagram: @RealBrookeWhite, @superGOODthings, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Author and storyteller Adam Linn joins us for a thrilling conversation! Adam shares his fascinating journey in comedy and storytelling. Adam recounts his start in the entertainment industry, inspired by NYU classmates, and details how he found his comedic voice through mentorship and personal challenges. He discusses his show 'Sped Kid,' which reflects his experiences as an outsider navigating life's complexities. Adam also explores how his struggles with sobriety informed his candid and humorous storytelling approach. It's an engaging conversation about comedy, personal growth, and artistic expression. Support SPED Kid going to Edinburgh Fringe: https://gofund.me/8cf9e4cf AdamLinn.com Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Donna Steele joins Jason to discuss...THE STATE OF COMEDY! In this episode, comedian Donna Steele catches up with Jason to talk about what they're tired of seeing in improv and more. She discusses her journey in the improv scene and performing at UCB with various Harold teams. The two share insights into the importance of projecting the team's energy when introing shows and the pitfalls of common improv moves like playing dead bodies or using exaggerated gestures. They also delve into the philosophy of creating an engaging monoscene, focusing on authenticity and character relationships. Donna touches on the value of being both a strong support player and a creative instigator on stage. It's a fun chat! https://www.donnasteele.com  Instagram: @DonnaASteele, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes  Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

In this episode, comedian Amanda Maryanna Gordon shares her journey through comedy and content creation. Amanda discusses starting out in comedy, why she studied Film and TV at NYU Tisch, and the evolution of her YouTube channel that she started in sixth grade. She opens up about her transition from beauty videos to comedic content and reflects on the differences she's noticed about creating content for YouTube versus for the stage. Amanda also talks about her short films, the impact of influencers in New York City, and her thoughts on the creative process behind her YouTube videos. A fascinating conversation about balancing humor and serious topics in content creation. Early Bird tickets to Alexis Gay's Unprofessional at Caveat on May 29th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/alexis-gay-unprofessional-tickets-1335738733509 YouTube: @amandamaryanna Instagram: @amandapanda767, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://