Every great laugh starts with one brave joke. Join host Karim Kanji on *My First Joke*, where comedians share the hilarious, awkward, and inspiring stories behind their first time on stage. From bombing to bringing the house down, we dig into the journeys of today’s funniest people. Whether you’re a comedy superfan or just need a good laugh, this podcast delivers punchlines, backstage stories, and plenty of laughs along the way. Tune in and find out where the funny begins!
My First Joke with Tim To | From Zoom Comedy to International Stand-Up
Comedian Tim To joins My First Joke to share how he started stand-up comedy in Hong Kong during COVID, performing in empty venues, Zoom shows, and one of the toughest environments for new comics.
In this episode, we talk about what it takes to become a stand-up comedian, from bombing at open mics to developing a comedy style, navigating different audiences, and learning the difference between getting laughs and earning respect. Tim breaks down the realities of the Hong Kong comedy scene vs. Toronto comedy, including reserved crowds, cultural differences, and why bombing in front of a PTA crowd might be the ultimate nightmare.
We also dive into:
Starting stand-up comedy during the pandemic
Open mic experiences and first jokes
Comedy in Hong Kong vs. North America
Finding your voice as a comedian
Dealing with bombing and tough crowds
The global comedy scene and career growth
If you're interested in stand-up comedy, comedy podcasts, or behind-the-scenes stories from working comedians, this episode is for you.
Follow Tim To on Instagram: @timt0
Subscribe to My First Joke for more interviews with comedians about their first time on stage and the journey that followed.
8 Jul 2026
How Storytelling Makes You a Better Comedian with Michael Salvatore
What’s the difference between stand-up comedy and storytelling—and why does it matter?
In this episode of My First Joke, host Karim Kanji talks with comedian and producer Michael Salvatore about how he found his voice through storytelling, and how it changed the way he approaches stand-up.
Michael shares how he got started taking classes at Second City, what it was like performing his first joke, and why early success can be misleading when you step into real comedy rooms. He also explains how storytelling helped him become more natural on stage, less dependent on memorization, and more connected to audiences.
The conversation dives into:
How storytelling differs from traditional stand-up
Why storytelling audiences are more forgiving—and more engaged
The importance of timing, structure, and conciseness
How to balance laughs with emotional depth
Why personal stories can create stronger comedy
Michael also talks about producing his own storytelling show in Toronto and how combining storytelling with stand-up helped him stand out in a crowded comedy scene.
If you're a comedian, creative, or podcast listener interested in how great stories connect with audiences, this episode offers practical insights and real-world experience.
Follow My First Joke for more conversations with comedians about how they got started and how they craft their material.
17 Jun 2026
Carolina DG on Starting Stand-Up, Beating the Fear of Bombing, and Owning the Stage
What actually pushes someone to try stand-up comedy for the first time?
Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Carolina DG to unpack how she went from being “the funny one” in everyday life to stepping onto a stage and making it real. Her path isn’t traditional—and that’s exactly what makes it interesting.
Carolina talks about turning life experience into material, why she resisted comedy at first, and how she eventually found her footing without becoming a strict “joke writer.” Instead, she leans into presence, connection, and being a strong host—something that’s shaped her entire comedy journey.
The conversation also explores:
The mindset shift needed to try stand-up for the first time
What bombing feels like—and why it stops mattering
How confidence on stage is built over time
The balance between structure and spontaneity in comedy
Creating opportunities in comedy beyond clubs and festivals
This episode offers a real-world look at building a creative career in comedy while juggling work, family, and everything in between.
If you’re thinking about trying stand-up—or just want an honest perspective from someone doing it their own way—this one’s worth a listen.
Follow My First Joke for more conversations with comedians about how it all began.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
76,465
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 51 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
59
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
32
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Guest appearances
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