2025 N E W T I M E S | 4 2 0 G U I D E | April 10th–April 16th, 2025 27 was taking place all around town throughout the week. I went to one mic in the first month, and then a few more. Eventually, as stage fright and insecurity wore down (a little) the addiction to writing and testing material took hold in a big way. I did over a hundred sets within the last couple months of 2024, and this pace has continued. Fortunately, and with some hard work, I’ve managed to get a few spots/gigs at some bar shows and clubs around town. I have a lot of respect for the people building and connecting the scene in Arizona, and I want to help. I’m 32 years old and I’ve been part of various fields and cultures – from writing, to government, to entrepreneurship and work in the cannabis industry. Without question, I have never felt more like I’ve found my people and purpose. I’ve never felt more honest or human or connected, and I’m buzzing with gratitude about that, regardless of career trajectory or any future in it. Of course, many of us practicing in the shadows would like to get closer to the limelight and make this a full-time adventure, but I would keep doing this even if it were a hobby. To be honest, I’d keep doing this if it were illegal – that’s how much I believe in it and how much it means to me, and there’s not many things I’d say that about. Besides yourself, who are some up and coming comedians who our readers should have on their radar? Ok, this is tough because there are so many funny people in town, most of whom have been doing this for longer than I have. Instead of naming the most influential people who could help me out, I’ll focus on comics who I personally enjoy, since that’s subjective and apolitical. I’ll name a few in alphabetical order, and link to their Instagram profiles for each. If you just follow them, they’ll lead you to many others who are also worth seeing in person. Adam Jay – he takes this seriously, he looks somewhat serious, and his subject matter choices are sometimes dark or… serious. But his ideas, perspectives, and hypotheticals are hilarious. He’s also working quietly on some cool projects to grow and support the scene, so keep an eye on this guy… Cole East – he hosts two open mics, does a lot to support shows around town, and has some hilarious stories and ideas on stage. He also isn’t afraid to tell someone they’re funny or try to help people improve and rise. Big love, dude. Dustin Hadlock – absurdly talented, supports others, has a cool vintage shop. I’ll be on his next show at Cheba Hut in Downtown Phoenix on April 26 at 3pm, so please check it out!! Gabe Olivarez – I’ve never not had fun when this guy is on stage. He’s self-deprecating but can also clap back with comebacks and reactions that always kill. Jonathan Manno – a spectacle of madness, Jonathan seems simultaneously embattled with himself and the audience’s opinion, and I honestly don’t know or care where the real Jonathan ends and the unpredictable nature of his comedy begins. Hilarious and thoroughly different. Miles Owens – I would be foolish to describe his act in any way. Find him. Watch him. Book him. Zaid Arikat – funny and clever, this guy features for headliners and does shows on the road, but I still see him grinding at open mics, having fun and testing new bits or variations. Mad respect.
