About the Show

The official podcast of AltComedy.com explores the world of alternative comedy through interviews, analysis, and archival deep dives. Each episode approaches alt comedy from a different angle—historical, creative, or cultural—providing insights for both comedy enthusiasts and casual listeners.

New episodes released every Wednesday.

Latest Episodes

Episode 42

The Visual Language of Alt Comedy

Released: April 2, 2025 Duration: 58 minutes

How does alternative comedy use visual elements differently from mainstream comedy? This episode explores the distinctive visual aesthetics of alt comedy across mediums:

  • The intentionally low-fi look of early Adult Swim shows
  • Surrealist comedy's use of unexpected imagery
  • The evolution of alt comedy fashion and stage design
  • Visual elements in alt comedy marketing and branding

Featuring interviews with art directors from "Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!" and "I Think You Should Leave," plus commentary from visual culture scholars.

Episode 41

Regional Scenes - The Chicago Alternative

Released: March 26, 2025 Duration: 65 minutes

Chicago has developed a distinctive alt comedy sensibility that differs from both the LA and New York scenes. This episode explores the Windy City's unique comedy ecosystem:

  • The influence of improv traditions on Chicago's alt comedy
  • How affordable venues have shaped performance styles
  • The blending of theatrical and comedic approaches
  • Key venues like The Hideout and The Neo-Futurists

Featuring interviews with Chicago-based comedians including Aasia LaShay Bullock, Alex Kumin, and Scott Adsit.

Episode 40

Comedy and Capitalism - Alternative Economic Models

Released: March 19, 2025 Duration: 72 minutes

How are alternative comedians finding sustainable ways to support their work outside mainstream entertainment structures? This episode examines:

  • The Patreon/subscription model for comedy
  • Comedian-owned venues and collectives
  • Grant funding and arts council support for comedy
  • Alternative approaches to intellectual property

Featuring interviews with comedians who have developed innovative funding models and cultural economists studying the comedy industry.

Episode 39

Alt Comedy's Literary Connections

Released: March 12, 2025 Duration: 61 minutes

This episode explores the overlap between contemporary literature and alternative comedy:

  • Literary influences on key alt comedians
  • Comedians who have moved into essay and fiction writing
  • Literary techniques adapted for comedic performance
  • The rise of literary references in comedy material

Featuring interviews with comedians who reference literature in their work and literary critics who study humor writing.

Special Series

Alt Comedy Archives

Deep dives into historically significant alt comedy shows, scenes, and movements.

Explore Series

The Creative Process

Alternative comedians break down the development of specific bits, shows, or concepts.

Explore Series

New Voices

Spotlight episodes featuring emerging alternative comedians from around the world.

Explore Series

Episode Archive

Select filters to view archived episodes or browse all episodes.

Suggest a Topic

Have an idea for a podcast episode? Let us know what aspects of alternative comedy you'd like us to explore.