#1418 - Don Gavin

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Boston Comedy in the 80s: Don Gavin and Joe Rogan Era

  • Don Gavin and Joe Rogan reminisce about the vibrant Boston comedy scene in the 80s.
  • The Ding Ho, a Chinese restaurant turned comedy venue, played a significant role for comedians like Gavin, Sweeney, and others.
  • Boston comedy scene thrived with diverse approaches and talents, shaping a unique era in stand-up comedy.
• 00:02:08

  Tax Troubles and Infamy: The IRS vs Comedians

  • Chun Li's comedy venture at the Ding Ho led to tax troubles and IRS scrutiny for many comedians.
  • Don Gavin shares his experience of IRS audits and challenges faced by entertainers in Boston.
  • Several Boston comedians, including Gavin and Donovan, faced financial consequences due to tax evasion issues.
• 00:09:19

  Boston Comedy Scene Origins: Comedy Connection, Billy Downs, Paul Barclay

  • Introduction to the early days of comedy in Boston
  • Origins of comedy clubs like Comedy Connection
  • Key figures like Billy Downs and Paul Barclay playing a significant role
• 00:10:27

  Growth of Comedy Clubs: The Comedy Boom in Boston

  • Slow start and evolution of stand-up comedy awareness
  • Personal experience of starting out in stand-up comedy
  • Reflection on the vibrant comedy club scene with multiple venues and talented comedians
• 00:18:58

  Comedy Scene in Boston: George Miller, Richard Lewis

  • Introduction to the competitive Boston comedy scene
  • George Miller and Richard Lewis featured as notable figures
  • Tough environment for aspiring comedians, with emphasis on fast-paced, punchline-heavy style
• 00:20:04

  Irish Catholic Comedians & Savage Environment in Boston

  • Description of Boston's unique comedy style
  • Irish Catholic influence and the presence of big, intense comedians
  • Environment of competitiveness, with emphasis on being able to handle fights
• 00:28:33

  Comedy Industry Scandals and The Story of Milano and Seinfeld

  • A comedian owed $35,000 but suggested deducting it from his owed money instead of paying back.
  • Various agents were reported for pocketing money, causing financial issues to others.
  • David's Gerald entered comedy through Alcoholics Anonymous, gaining popularity with drinking stories.
• 00:30:47

  Comedian's Journey into Stand-Up Comedy and Impact of Vices

  • The transition into comedy at a later age due to previous career and bartending experience.
  • Growth of vices like drugs and alcohol coincided with starting stand-up comedy.
  • Notable comedy club, The Ding-Ho, closed due to financial losses and transitioned into an Indian restaurant.
• 00:37:59

  Houston and Chicago Comedy Scene Declines

  • Houston comedy scene faced a decline with a lot of drugs and aggressive comics.
  • Chicago comedy scene also declined due to owner greed and mismanagement.
  • Houston's scene experienced a resurgence while Chicago's remained stagnant for a while.
• 00:40:00

  Comedy Clubs Transformation and Global Impact

  • Comedy clubs viewed more as businesses with financial concerns.
  • Comedy Store in Los Angeles attracts international comedy tourists.
  • Increased global interest in visiting comedy clubs, transforming the industry.
• 00:47:13

  Boston Stay and Cruise Ships Adventures

  • Many comedians stayed in Boston instead of moving to New York or LA.
  • One comedian moved to Florida for warmer weather.
  • Explored cruise ship performances with significant increase in the industry.
• 00:48:58

  Writing and Performing Stand-Up

  • Describes the process of writing jokes and trying them on stage.
  • Shares a story of incorporating a current event into a stand-up routine.
  • Emphasizes the importance of taking chances and recording sets for improvement.
• 00:56:46

  Discussion on Dick Darity and his Influence on Boston Comedy Scene

  • Dick Darity known as 'Godfather of Boston Comedy.'
  • Described as a generous mentor providing gigs and support to young comedians.
  • Conversation about the numerous comedy venues managed by Darity and his impact on the local comedy scene.
• 00:58:45

  Boston's High Standards for Comedy and Notable Comedians like Dom Marrera

  • Observations on the high standards and talent in Boston's comedy industry.
  • Anecdotes about renowned comedian Dom Marrera's successful performances at the Nick's Comedy Stop.
  • Reflections on the unique atmosphere and comedy culture of Boston during that era.
• 01:04:57

  Exploring Stand-up Comedy Techniques with Joe

  • Discussing the art of incorporating new material in a set
  • Sharing experiences of trying out new jokes in between established ones
  • Highlighting the importance of experimenting with different approaches to comedy
• 01:06:19

  Comedy Nation Rants: Connecticut and Memphis

  • Expressing strong dislike for Connecticut and the negative reception in Memphis
  • Recalling the audience's negative reaction in different cities
  • Reflecting on challenging stand-up experiences with specific locations
• 01:13:34

  Don Gavin Comedy and Manhattan Album Name Mentioned

  • Don Gavin, a comedy figure, discussed in the conversation
  • Reference to Don Gavin Live album
  • Mention of Manhattan in the album
• 01:14:15

  Appreciation and Farewell

  • Expressing gratitude and honor towards the guest Don Gavin
  • Acknowledgment of inspiration received
  • Farewell exchange and thanking the guest