Episode 34: How Comedy Gimmicks Can Make or Break You

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell dive into the wild world of comedy gimmicks—what they are, when they work, and how they’ve shaped the careers of legends and newcomers alike.

From Vince’s brutally honest pig roast gig story to Dobie’s unforgettable transformation into a wrestling-masked “Super Chuckle,” the episode mixes hilarious personal experiences with real talk about branding, persona, and marketability.

Along the way, they break down the gimmicks of comedy icons like Andrew Dice Clay, Larry the Cable Guy, Steve Martin, and Sam Kinison—revealing what stuck, what flopped, and why being memorable often matters more than being perfect.

Key Points Discussed:

• What separates a gimmick from a persona
• The highs and lows of trying to stand out in stand-up
• How Vince uses “Bad Father” as a marketable identity, not a costume
• Dobie’s fully committed alter ego, “Super Chuckle”
• The difference between being funny… and being memorable

This episode is a must-listen for comedians, performers, and anyone curious about how identity plays a role in making it on stage. Laugh, cringe, and maybe rethink your brand.