Funny In Failure

A podcast that interviews funny and interesting people to discuss their careers and some of the challenges they have faced. I hope to use this platform to normalise and encourage the discussion of failure, particularly through the lens of the entertainment industry, to show that it can be a stepping stone towards the road of success. Nothing is better than humour to normalise a situation, so having deep and meaningful conversations, interspersed with comedy and laughter, helps us celebrate and appreciate life’s frustrating moments.

#331: Luke McQueen - Authenticity & Humour 03/23/2026

#330: Ravi Patel - Have a Great Day 03/16/2026

#330: Ravi Patel - Have a Great Day Ravi Patel is a powerhouse multi-hyphenate; Emmy-nominated writer, director, and actor — lighting up screens in film and television as one of the entertainment industry’s most dynamic and in-demand talents. Ravi currently stars as Amit Patel in Animal Control, FOX’s #1 comedy, returning in a lead role alongside Joel McHale which has been renewed for a 5th season. On the unscripted front, Ravi brings his signature charm and comedic energy to LEGO Masters Jr., FOX’s new child-friendly competition series hosted by Kelly Osbourne which is out. The four-week special event features Ravi alongside fellow celebrity partners Andy Richter, Jordin Sparks, Porsha Williams, and Alison Sweeney, teaming up with young contestants in a high-spirited, creativity- fuelled challenge. Ravi also continued his FOX unscripted takeover participating in one of television’s most extreme challenges in Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test (season 4), an intense, unscripted series that pushes celebrity participants to their absolute limits — physically and mentally. On the film front, Ravi recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of his groundbreaking documentary-style romantic comedy Meet the Patels, which he co-directed and starred in alongside his sister, acclaimed director/producer Geeta Vasant Patel. Blending real-life footage with animated sequences, the award-winning film struck a chord with both South Asian and broader audiences for its authentic, humorous take on bicultural identity and modern dating. One of the most streamed documentaries of the past decade, Meet the Patels also led to a narrative remake opportunity with Fox Searchlight Pictures. Ravi also created and hosted the critically acclaimed HBO Max docuseries Ravi Patel’s Pursuit of Happiness. He co-created, wrote, and starred in the Netflix India comedy Bhaag Beanie Bhaag, and served as a writer on CBS’ Ghosts. As an actor, Ravi has been featured in hit television series including Master of None, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Scrubs, Grey’s Anatomy, Children’s Hospital, Three Women, Justified, and Transformers. His film work includes Come As You Are; Long Shot (with Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron); Wonder Woman 1984; The Valet; Harold and the Purple Crayon; and Disney+’s Dashing Through the Snow. He has also appeared as a guest on Real Time with Bill Maher, Name That Tune, and Netflix’s Is It Cake? Outside of entertainment, Ravi is the co-founder of This Saves Lives, a mission-driven snack company launched alongside Kristen Bell, Todd Grinnell, and Ryan Devlin. As its former CEO and board chairman, he helped scale the company before its acquisition by Good/Upworthy. Each snack sold provides a life-saving meal packet to a child in need. He continues to advise and invest in companies focused on wellness and nutrition. Ravi will also appear in Best Pancake in the Country with Nicolas Cage and will join Ben Stiller in Apple TV limited series The Off Weeks We chat about fulfilment, ADHD, writing his yearly eulogy, grief and losing his daughter, health and wellness, his poker magazine, his thoughts about acting, ambition, Meet The Patels, one’s unique medicine, wellness focussed communities + plenty more! Check Ravi out on: Instagram: Youtube: Facebook (Meet the Patels): Tiktok: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/40486015

#329: Dave Hughes - Life is Incredible 03/09/2026

#329: Dave Hughes - Life is Incredible Dave Hughes is one of Australia’s biggest and best stand-up comedians – and fellow comedians call him ‘the GOAT.’ A household name who’s made sharp wit and larrikin charm his trademark, Hughesy is universally revered by those inside the industry as the comedian’s comedian. His career exploded in 1998 with a legendary debut on Hey Hey It’s Saturday– so good it was the only stand-up spot replayed on the show’s 50th Anniversary Special. From there, he became a breakout star on The Glasshouse, co-founded the iconic Before The Game, delivered unforgettable Hughesy Loses It segments on Rove Live, and was a key pillar in the launch of The Project in 2009, staying for five years. But Dave’s never stopped. He’s hosted Australia’s Got Talent, produced and starred in Hughesy, We Have A Problem, was the only judge to complete all five seasons of Masked Singer Australia, and in 2025 appeared on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, Taskmaster Australia, and Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation. His life and comedy were also featured on Australian Story – the most viewed episode of 2025. While dominating TV, Dave simultaneously conquered radio. From launching Nova 100’s breakfast show in 2001 (which ruled ratings for 13 years) to his national drive show and 2DayFM breakfast stint, he’s been a ratings powerhouse for over two decades. Through it all, stand-up remains his true love. He’s a road warrior, selling out theatres nationwide for three decades and earning invitations to perform at Montreal’s Just For Laughs festival. In 2025, Australians voted Dave the 2nd most popular comedian and radio host in the nation – remarkable for someone who’s been essential for almost thirty years. Whether performing for 50 people or millions on TV, Hughesy delivers exactly what audiences come for: big laughs. And he’s never lost the common touch – after every show, he patiently takes photos with fans until the last one has gone home, from 9 year olds to 99 year olds and beyond. David is currently touring and also performing at the Melbourne Comedy Festival soon, check out tickets before they sell out! Links below. We chat about his radical mindset shift, Wayne Dwyer and mindset, worries and letting go, his many jobs before comedy and being fired as a dishwasher, ego, giving up alcohol, radio and ratings, newfound view of success, being on the doll, trending on Twitter + so much more! Check Dave out on: Instagram: Website/ tour dates: Facebook: Tiktok: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/40355555

#328: Sarah Schreiber - The In-Between Moments 03/02/2026

#328: Sarah Schreiber - The In-Between Moments Sarah Schreiber is an actor, announcer & host. She has been dedicated to the entertainment industry for two decades, performing and working across nearly every medium—stage, opera, television, commercials, red carpet coverage, news, and film. Currently Sarah has been a proud part of the global sports entertainment industry with WWE. She has served as a backstage correspondent on Monday Night Raw—the longest-running scripted episodic program in television history—as well as on SmackDown and NXT, covering unforgettable moments and interviewing top talent for shows broadcast worldwide on Netflix, USA Network, The CW, and Peacock. She has also been an in-ring announcer for live events across the globe, from international arenas to Madison Square Garden. Beyond the ring, Sarah has represented WWE as a Global Ambassador, hosting community events with organizations such as Make-A-Wish, the Special Olympics, and Boys & Girls Clubs—appearing alongside distinguished alumni including Denzel Washington—to inspire and bring joy to communities around the world. As an actress, Sarah has been fortunate to work on high-profile projects such as Marvel’s Agent Carter (ABC), Bloodline (Netflix), NCIS: New Orleans (CBS), Grand Hotel (ABC), The Late Show with David Letterman (CBS), and The Knights of Prosperity (ABC). Her film credits include Stevie D, Reunion, and Ashley & The Mummy Resurrected. She also had the unforgettable opportunity to perform her own stunts opposite fellow New Jersey native Bruce Willis, under Grammy-winning director Joseph Kahn and stunt coordinator Eddie Braun. As a host, Sarah has worked with major outlets including E! News, KTLA, KCAL, FABtv, HSN, and AndroidTV, reporting from red carpets at prestigious award shows and premieres, and engaging audiences on live broadcasts. She hosted a pilot for Lance Bass Productions (Hangover Gourmet) and has extensive experience in home shopping, including her own HSN series, The Shoe Lovers Closet. She is a proud graduate of the University of Miami, where she earned her BFA, and holds a Master of Science in Television & Media Management from Drexel University. Sarah also hosts the podcast ‘Don’t Start’ with Candice Guardino (who’s also been on the podcast!), check it out, it’s great! We chat about joining the WWE family, resilience and hustle, being a shoe model, shows that don’t go ahead, auditions and rejection, her masters, evolving and growing, collaboration, lessons from grief, being on David Letterman, 30 minute musicals, her new podcast plus plenty more! Check Sarah out on: Instagram: Website: Don't Start podcast: Linkedin: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/40266820

#327: Alisha Henderson - Life's Short, Eat Cake 02/23/2026

#327: Alisha Henderson - Life's Short, Eat Cake Alisha Henderson is a baker, creative cake content creator, and author. She is the creative force behind Sweet Bakes, a successful cake business launched in 2013. A former journalism student and professional cheerleader, Alisha discovered her passion for baking at 19, quickly gaining a following online. Completely self-taught, she has become a leading figure in the Australian pastry scene, known for her vibrant and innovative cakes. Her Cake Mail Club, introduced during the pandemic, delivers unique monthly cake tastings across Australia. Alisha is also a published children's author and illustrator, and collaborates with brands to create inspiring content. In 2023, she co-founded Co.Bake Space in Melbourne, offering workshops and events. Alisha joined the cast of Dessert Masters in 2024, aiming to 'edu-cake' bakers everywhere with her infectious joy and creativity. Alisha has dedicated more than a decade to gaining an understanding of what makes a good cake truly glorious, and to perfecting recipes for the ultimate joy-filled bakes. Along the way, she's discovered there are countless reasons to love cake - from the art of creation and the act of baking for someone, to the simple pleasure of indulging in something sweet. Cake offers connection, a delicious glue that binds us together in fleeting, precious moments of happiness. Her new book, EVERYBODY LOVES CAKE is now out! In Everybody Loves Cake, Alisha brings together her very best cake recipes, from Classics to Showstoppers. There's something for every occasion and celebration, all beautifully photographed and accompanied by Alisha's uplifting stories about the people closest to her and their favourite cakes. We chat about how she got into cakes and where her love and passion for it began, a car that drove into her store, shared success, being a professional Cheerleader, Millie the Muffin, the almost moments, shame, the 'what ifs', being on TV, journalling, saying yes despite fear, manifesting French castles, her new book EVERYBODY LOVES CAKE + plenty more. Check Alisha out on: Instagram: Book: Website: Tiktok: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/40183500

#326: Emma Donovan - I've Got More To Give 02/16/2026

#326: Emma Donovan - I've Got More To Give Emma Donovan is an acclaimed Indigenous Australian singer and songwriter best known for her work with soul bands, The Putbacks and The Black Arm Band project. She is one of Australia’s most celebrated voices, with a career spanning over two decades. The proud Gumbaynggirr and Yamatji artist has carved a singular path that fuses gospel, country and soul with the storytelling traditions of her culture. First emerging as a teenager with Stiff Gins, Emma went on to front The Putbacks, whose albums Dawn (2014), Crossover (2020) and Under These Streets (2021) earned her critical acclaim and cemented her as a vital force in Australian music. Having performed on iconic stages including WOMADelaide, Bluesfest Byron Bay and the Sydney Opera House, Emma has become a guiding voice for the next generation of First Nations artists, and in 2021 was inducted into the National Indigenous Music Awards Hall of Fame alongside her family band The Donovans. Emma’s previous album Til My Song Is Done was nominated for an ARIA and won an AIR Award last year. She has also toured and recorded with Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter, Spinifex Gum, Christine Anu, Yothu Yindi, Jimmy Little and Paul Kelly among others. On her mother’s side, Emma is part of the famed Donovan family of singers Emma Donovan dips into soulful waters with a sumptuous cover of Al Green’s 1974 hit Take Me To The River (links below). The new track arrives alongside a deeply personal music video. A song that brings Emma’s journey full circle, connecting her past to her present and luminous future, and celebrating her lifelong love of soul. We chat about leaving legendary bands and going solo, being on Play School, nerves, community, improving & getting better with age, collaboration, loss and grief, the Donovan musical family, confidence, burnout, musical influences, take me to the river cover + plenty more! Just as a heads up, we do briefly cover mental health and heavier topics only for a short period but the conversation as a whole is light and empowering! Check Emma out on: Instagram: Website/ tour: Facebook: Youtube: Take Me To The River cover: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/40110285

#325: Candice Guardino -Journey Together 02/09/2026

#325: Candice Guardino -Journey Together Candice Guardino is a comedian, writer, host and producer. Brooklyn-born Candice Guardino grew up in a loud, loving Italian family on Staten Island—an upbringing she transformed into her hit theatrical comedy Italian Bred. Inspired by true events, the special follows Candice as she seamlessly slips into multiple characters, including her brassy grandmother, taking audiences on a hilarious and heartfelt journey through her childhood. Italian Bred was written and performed by Candice and filmed through her production company, Anthony Street Productions (launched in 2022). The special was produced by Chris DiPetta (Billy Gardell’s Halftime, Showtime’s Road Dogs), directed by Samuel Brownfield (longtime Jim Gaffigan collaborator), edited by Brent Katz (Now You See Him), with musical arrangements by Emmy-nominated David Dabbon (Oh Mary!, Beetlejuice the Musical). The original song, “Change in Me,” was written by Candice and Dabbon. Candice is currently writing her debut comedic essay collection, Confessions of an Italian Bred Girl (Because Therapy Is Expensive and Laughing at Myself Is Free), which is being shopped to publishers. Through Anthony Street Productions, she also produces her hit weekly podcast , featuring inspiring celebrity guests. New episodes drop every Tuesday. Candice is also developing a new television project based on the IP of her grandmother’s secret family journals. , with stops including New York, Florida, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, and additional dates to be announced. Italian Bread is now out! Check it out on Amazon Prime or Apple. We chat about dancing competitively and judging, Italian Bred, journey of self-discovery and growth, wild fertility journey, writing and attachment, musical theatre and regional runs, nerves and performing, + more! Photo credit is: Dirty Sugar Photography Check Candice out on: Instagram: Website/ tour: Italian Bred: Podcast (DON'T START): ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/40026900

#324: Conrad Sewell - Gut Instinct 02/02/2026

#324: Conrad Sewell - Gut Instinct Conrad Sewell is an ARIA Award-winning, multi-platinum-selling singer and songwriter. Starting his musical journey at the age of 8, Conrad became a household name with his first official solo endeavour, teaming up with dynamic Norwegian DJ and producer Kygo for the smash hit Firestone; a track that has since gone on to generate over 1 billion streams on Spotify alone. Since then, Conrad has never looked back, going large with ‘Healing Hands’ and secured a #1 charting and Platinum certified single via 2015’s Start Again, which also took home the ARIA Music Award for Song of the Year, before going on to release two studio albums, tour the globe extensively, all while continuing to enamour with his soulful approach to pop music that is authentic as it is memorable. Conrad Sewell is set to return to Australian stages this year, today announcing his Bloodline tour, a powerful new chapter celebrating family, legacy and the raw soul of his voice, joined by his Grammy-nominated sister Grace Sewell (PKA SAYGRACE), whose billion-stream career has made her one of Australia’s most formidable R&B exports. The tour announcement comes paired with the news of a compelling new Conrad Sewell single Deserve. Tickets are available below. He's toured with Ed Sheeran and Maroon 5, performances at Madison Square Garden and Coachella, appearances on Jimmy Fallon and Good Morning America and praise from Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, Teen Vogue, VICE and NBC. We chat about hitting over 1 billion streams for ‘Firestone’ and what Spotify gave him, authenticity and trusting your gut, social media and being in front of the camera, self-discovery, flow, good vs bad collaboration, musical magic, ego, his health journey more! Check Conrad out on: Instagram: Tour: Youtube: Spotify: Tiktok: Deserve Music video: Walk on post: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/39932200

#323: Rachel Lee Goldenberg - Follow Your Excitment 01/26/2026

#322: Jaydi Samuels Kuba - You Can Do Both 01/19/2026

#321: What So Not - Artistic Success 01/12/2026

#321: What So Not - Artistic Success Today’s guest may be one of the most interesting humans on the planet. Whether it’s doing 250 shows in a year, training with monks, not staying in one city for more than four days over a year and a half, exploring the world, or being a true pioneer in his music space — Chris Emerson, aka WHAT SO NOT, has done it all! What So Not is an Australian DJ and producer. He has just released a brand new collaborative EP The Quiet That Hurts with visionary Dutch artist Buunshin. Previously releasing their single Threads and a luminous new single Dancing In The Leaves featuring Lucy Lucy. Emerging in the 2010s, What So Not has evolved into an in-demand artist across the globe, renowned for his innovation and signature style that blends bass, trap and melodic hues into a unique and unforgettable package. Releasing his debut album Not All the Beautiful Things in 2018, What So Not resoundingly showcased his versatility and revolutionary prowess, with tracks like Be OK Again featuring Daniel Johns and Goh featuring Skrillex building formidable momentum that would ultimately lead to a 2022 sophomore album Anomaly. A genre-less and relentlessly experimental artist, What So Not has spent his career collaborating with the likes of Skrillex, RL Grime, Killer Mike and Toto, with his releases and potent live performance effortlessly translating over to the stage including at Coachella and Lollapalooza, headline shows in Europe, North America as well as on home soil, and also cultivating over 1.3 billion streams and counting worldwide in the process. Opening with Threads featuring renowned American singer-songwriter and composer Maiah Manser, The Quiet That Hurts EP is undeniably a short yet sharply sweet full-bodied journey in avant-garde sounds and blissful delivery, with the EP growing from its opening track into quiet rumination and lush, ambient urgency via Tragic, featuring Ukrainian singer vocalist Alina Pash, pulsing with emotion alongside a high-octane foundation. From here, the EP dives into a hypnotic yet propulsive flow state (Dancing In The Leaves feat. Lucy Lucy), before oozing into bewitching melodics balanced between moments of instrumental sparsity and animated drum and bass (The One feat. Aiko), and, ultimately, closing out with sprawling soundscapes fused with narcotic beats and unbridled serenity juxtaposed against emphatic and raw lyricism delivered by Mara Necia. Dancing In The Leaves is out now! The Quiet That Hurts EP is out now! What So Not is also touring America and Canada soon, check it out! We chat about surfing and what it does for his soul, his new EP, consciousness and deep chats with AI, the void, Aussie revival dance tour and helping upcoming artists, the state of the music industry, ego, jumping off the rocket ship, art and completion, quitting accounting, creating new sounds plus plenty more! Check What So Not out on: Instagram: Tour dates/ tickets: Spotify: Youtube: The Quiet That Hurts ep: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/39681460

#320: Steph Strings - Feeling Alive 01/05/2026

#320: Steph Strings - Feeling Alive Melbourne multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Steph Strings already has many strings, literally and figuratively, to her creative bow. But in early 2026, a brand new chapter will arrive in the form of Steph’s long-awaited debut album ‘Feel Alive’, set for release on Friday 9 January, 2026. Steph has also unveiled a new single and music video, with the smouldering country-pop track ‘Devil Woman’ which is now out! A truly gifted storyteller at her core, Steph Strings is a renowned singer-songwriter and guitarist, merging coastal fingerstyle indie rock with blues, folk and Celtic influences, along with percussive wizardry. A lover of laughter, big kick drums, sunset drinks, golden retrievers, and philosophical conversations, Steph found a passion for music at the age of 7, learning to play the piano before ultimately finding herself drawn to guitar. Starting guitar lessons at the age of 9, Steph has never looked back. Releasing her debut EP Allegoric Oceans in 2017, Steph’s ability to channel her influences and creative history into a sound entirely her own has only deepened with each new release, now in command of millions of streams and a global audience firmly mirroring her talent and determination. In a live setting, Steph’s transformative sonic creations take on new life, capable of transporting you into another dimension purely with a guitar and her voice. And whether performing at home or abroad, touring with the likes of Vance Joy, Ziggy Alberts, The Cat Empire, Kim Churchill, Pierce Brothers and Jack Botts, or commanding onstage at her own headline shows. Stephs is about to do doing a massive tour in Canada, America and Europe, check it out before tickets sell out! Ticket links below. We chat about seeing colours, imposter syndrome, her happy place, touring and performing, flow state, lessons from legends, fear of singing, manifestation the Steph way, adrenaline dumps, posting videos while at school and the profound impacts it had, pursuing guitar, having a great team plus plenty more! Check Steph out on: Instagram: Tour dates/ tickets: Spotify: Youtube: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/39602800

#319: Dave Symes (Boy & Bear)- Looking Out For Each Other 12/29/2025

#319: Dave Symes (Boy & Bear)- Looking Out For Each Other Dave Symes is a performer, writer, producer, arranger and the bass player of Boy & Bear. As a member of Boy & Bear Dave has enjoyed 2 Aria #1 Albums in Australia with “Harlequin Dream” and “Limit Of Love”, as well as a # 4 with “Boy and Bear” and a #7 with “Suck On Light”. The band performs regularly, touring across Australia, North America and Europe. Renowned for their magnetic blend of vintage pop, alternative elements and folk edges, Boy & Bear channel nostalgia, personal experiences and universal themes into charming and captivating sonic journeys. Taking the world by storm in 2011 via their debut album Moonfire, Boy & Bear instantly won hearts and minds, while also taking home five ARIA Award wins and achieving double-Platinum status for their maiden record. Cementing their ever-burgeoning legacy with 2013’s Harlequin Dream, 2015’s Limit of Love, 2019’s Suck on Light and, most recently, 2023’s self-titled album, over the years Boy & Bear have garnered multiple #1 charting albums, top 10 debuts, seven ARIA Award nominations and five wins, over half a billion streams and ongoing performances in their wake as headliners, supporting the likes of Mumford & Sons, Chris Isaak and Laura Marling, or charming audiences across the globe with their unforgettable performances Indie alternative icons Boy & Bear have recently unveiled their sixth studio album Tripping Over Time, with the independent full-length offering a boundless exploration of melodic hooks, storytelling and luminous pop across its unforgettable 11 tracks, including serene focus track Ancestors. As of this weekend, Boy & Bear will commence a mammoth tour that will see the five-piece tick off some of the biggest shows of their career to date, including a once-in-a-lifetime performance at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt this Sunday 14 December. Dave has also collaborated with man y great Australian artists. Some of those artists include Missy Higgins, Sarah Blasko, The Sleepy Jackson, Marcia Hines, Keith Urban and the The Whitlams. Boy & Bear have released their 6th album tripping over time, check it out now + ticket sales across Canada, Europe and Australia are out as well so check them out. We chat about Boy & Bear and joining the band, the great Jackie Orszaczky, the magical jazz share house, collaboration and ego, ‘never arriving’, gigging at a young age, performing, when things don’t go ‘right’, ambition plus plenty more! Check Dave out on: Instagram: Personal website: Boy & Bear: Tour dates/ tickets: Instagram: New Album: Youtube: Facebook: Tiktok: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/39544385

#318: Pez - Music is a Blessing 12/22/2025

#317: Micah & Sarah Wallace - Leap of Faith 12/15/2025

#315: Matt Ritter - Friendship is the Ultimate Life Hack 12/01/2025

#315: Matt Ritter - Friendship is the Ultimate Life Hack —a former lawyer turned Hollywood multi-hyphenate who’s fast becoming the definitive voice of the modern friendship movement. Matt is the creator, writer, producer, and star of The Buddy System, a hilarious and heartfelt Audible Original which has just launched. The special blends personal storytelling with cutting-edge research on social fitness—challenging the idea that friendship is a luxury and making the case that it's actually the most important wellness tool we have. He’s also co-host of Man of the Year, the #1 podcast on male friendship, and the founder of Friendship Productions, a creative studio developing original content across film, TV, audio, and social—cantered around the theme of connection in an age of isolation. As a storyteller and performer, Matt is taking centre stage in a new wave of character-driven, friendship-forward content. His current projects include: The Maccabees: A “Remember the Titans meets Moneyball” sports drama, produced by Mayim Bialik Breached: A dark comedy about friendship and betrayal, starring Anna Faris and Tiffany Haddish Doll Wars: A satirical script that landed on the Hollywood Black List A docu-comedy series based on The Buddy System, in which Matt stars and executive produces Matt has previously produced hit unscripted series like Duck Dynasty, Fat N’ Furious, Tasteless, and Chained to My Ex, and has been featured on The Today Show, Netflix Is a Joke, NPR, The New York Times, and more. He also recently interviewed the U.S. Surgeon General and is slated to give his first TED Talk in 2026: “Friendship Is the Original Life Hack.” We chat about leaving law, being the friendship guy and inspiring others, Fat N’ Furious, Man of the Year awards & podcasts, The Buddy system, lying his way into Hollywood + plenty more! Check Matt out on: Instagram: The Buddy System (Audible): 7 day Friendship Challenge: Man of the year podcast - check it out on all the podcast apps Tour dates/ tickets: Contact: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/39206955

#314: Diesel (Mark Lizotte) - 10,000 hours 11/24/2025

#313: 360 (Matt Colwell) - Authenticity 11/17/2025

#313: 360 (Matt Colwell) - Authenticity Matt Colwell or 360 is one of Australia’s most iconic and beloved rappers. 360 erupted onto the scene in the early 2000s, taking home multiple ARIA Award nominations and two wins along the way. Peaking at #4 on the ARIA Albums Chart, Falling & Flying went on to become certified double platinum, and also secured wins at the 2012 ARIA Music Awards for Breakthrough Artist – Release and Producer of the Year. From here, 360 released 2014’s Utopia, 2017’s Vintage Modern and, most recently, his latest record Out of the Blue, which dropped earlier this year. Debuting at #1 on the ARIA Australian Hip-Hop Albums Chart, Out of the Blue offered a resounding reminder of 360’s dexterity, dynamic flow and storytelling alongside magnetic new cuts Chasing Ghosts, Save My Soul and No Place To Go. With his trademark electrifying stage presence that has seen him enrapture sold out headline crowds, captivate alongside the likes of Eminem and Kendrick Lamar, or dazzle onstage at Lollapalooza, Big Day Out and Splendour In The Grass, 360 remains one of the country’s most in demand acts and musical exports, with his most recent Out Of The Blue capital city tour entirely sold out; and, as 360 reveals, his passion for live performances has not waned despite a lack of down time between his many performances. He is set to take it BACK N FORTH across regional Australia in 2026, with an extensive run kicking off in February 2026. Tickets are now on sale! Check it out, links below. We chat about going to rehab, his new tour, performing, nerves and rap battles, new definition of success, fame, life coaches, his 8 year hiatus, approval, people pleasing and trusting your gut + plenty more! Just as a heads up we do talk about drug use and oding all in a light-hearted and empowering way. Check Matt / 360 out on: Instagram: Website: Tour dates: Tiktok: Facebook: Spotify: Youtube: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/39030040

#312: Phil Rosenthal - Writing Your Own Ticket 11/10/2025

#312: Phil Rosenthal - Writing Your Own Ticket Phil Rosenthal is the award-winning creator, executive producer, and host of “Somebody Feed Phil,” as well as a two-time New York Times Best Selling Author and soon-to-be restaurant owner. “Somebody Feed Phil” – one of Netflix’s most popular food and travel shows – has garnered a cult-like following and released its eighth season on June 18th in 190 countries. The Emmy-nominated series is Netflix’s longest unscripted series and combines Rosenthal’s love of food and travel with his unique brand of humor and has become must-see TV for foodies, restaurateurs, travelers, and armchair enthusiasts all over the world. Rosenthal has been nominated for a 2024 Critics’ Choice Real TV Award, after winning Critics Choice Real TV Awards in 2022 and 2021 for “Best Travel/Adventure Show” and “Male Star of the Year” on behalf of the series. He also garnered a 2022 James Beard Award nomination for “Visual Media—Long Form.” Currently, Rosenthal has embarked on his highly anticipated third US live tour – An Evening With Phil Rosenthal “Of Somebody Feed Phil” – in over 25 North American cities August-October 2025. On tour, Rosenthal shares insights into his 40-year entertainment career, while incorporating his love of food, storytelling, and humor to audiences. He also invites special guests to be moderators on stage, ranging from local celebrities to famous chefs. The North American tour comes after his second European tour, which was received with resounding praise from fans across Europe. Up next, Rosenthal will also make a significant mark in the culinary world with the 2025 opening of his diner, Max & Helen’s, in Los Angeles. Named after his parents, who were beloved series regulars in “Somebody Feed Phil,” the dishes will not only be elevated by great ingredients but the brilliance of Executive Chef Nancy Silverton. Following a resounding call from fans, Rosenthal created a companion book to the series, “Somebody Feed Phil The Book” which was released in the US on October 20th, 2022, via Simon Element (an imprint of Simon & Schuster). It immediately landed on the New York Times Best Seller list, which then led to a UK release in January 2023 and a multi-country tour selling out venues across the globe. To expand on this, Rosenthal is set to release a second cookbook in the series, “Phil’s Favorites,” available for pre-order now and releasing on November 4th, 2025 in the US and November 6th in the UK. It is more than just a cookbook; it’s a celebration of food, family, and friendship incorporating recipes from his family and friends including Judy Gold and Anna Romano. In 2024, he released his first children’s book, "JUST TRY IT: A Phil and Lil Book," co-written with his daughter, Lily on March 5, 2024. The hilarious children’s picture book about a food-loving dad encouraging his picky eater daughter to just try something new. This once again put Rosenthal on the New York Times Best Seller list, leading to his second national book and live tour, both of which packed bookstores and theatres from coast to coast, including a sold-out crowd at The Beacon in New York City. Up next, they will launch its companion book, “JUST TRY IT: SOMEPLACE NEW!,” about an encouraging dad easing his daughter’s worries about staying at Grandma’s for the first time. Rosenthal has further expanded his love of humor, food, and human connection through a podcast called “Naked Lunch.” Launched in May 2022, his podcast is live on Stitcher, SiriusXM’s mobile app, and wherever podcasts are available. Co-hosted with his friend and longtime Rolling Stone journalist David Wild, each episode of this weekly talk-show podcast features a special, world-renowned guest to discuss what’s going on in their lives – “an informal meeting of wits, minds and hearts” – while eating lunch from some of Phil’s favorite local LA eateries. In 1995, Rosenthal created the hit CBS comedy “Everybody Loves Raymond” which premiered the following year. He served as the showrunner and executive producer for all nine years of the show's very successful run, which ended in 2005. During its original run, the show was nominated for over 70 Emmy Awards, and won 15 awards, including two for “Best Comedy Series” in 2003 and 2005. Rosenthal won the 2002 Writers Guild Award for “Excellence in Television Writing” for his “Italy” script. After the series wrapped, Rosenthal penned a book on the art of comedy and the making of a sitcom classic. YOU’RE LUCKY YOU’RE FUNNY: HOW LIFE BECOMES A SITCOM was published in 2007 via Penguin Publishing Group. His early writing credits include the comedy series “DOWN THE SHORE” and “Coach.” Rosenthal also co-wrote “America: A Tribute to Heroes,” the 9/11 telethon which aired on all four networks in September 2001, for which he won a Peabody Award and an Emmy nomination for “Outstanding Writing.” Rosenthal then went on to write, direct, and star in his first feature film for Sony Pictures. EXPORTING RAYMOND, the true story about the attempt to turn “Everybody Loves Raymond” into a Russian sitcom, was met with critical acclaim upon its release in October 2010. In 2015, Rosenthal embarked on a new journey by creating his first travel food series “I’ll Have What Phil’s Having.” This PBS documentary series, which is the precursor to “Somebody Feed Phil,” received two Taste Awards and won the 2016 James Beard Award for “Best Television Program, on Location.” In October 2020, Rosenthal launched Somebody Feed the People, an initiative of the Rosenthal Family Foundation that supports organizations making an impact and building community through food. This inclusive and non-partisan initiative partners with organizations across the U.S. that address food access and insecurity, support chefs and restaurant workers, create employment pathways, and strengthen the health of our food systems. This foundation is ongoing yearly. Rosenthal continued his philanthropic efforts in 2022, serving alongside Katie Couric and Jeff MacGregor as an executive producer of the documentary FOR LOVE AND LIFE: NO ORDINARY CAMPAIGN. The film follows Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya, a couple battling ALS and leading a revolutionary movement to help victims of the disease around the world. “For Love and Life” went on to win awards at the SXSW Film Festival, the Chicago International Film Festival, and the Virginia Film Festival. We chat about executives trying to sabotage him, writing what you want, gratitude, Somebody Feed Phil, Everybody Loves Raymond and almost quitting twice, writing, crazy story as a security guard, creating your own ticket plus plenty more! Check Phil out on: Instagram: Book (Phil's Favorites): Website: Tour dates/ shows: Youtube: Facebook: Max and Helens Restaurant (California): ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/38958175

#311: Justin Spitzer - Incremental Progress 11/03/2025

#310: Dean Redman - Your Unique Blueprint 10/27/2025

#309: Jessica Camacho - Trial and Error 10/13/2025

#308: Andrew Thorp King - The Calling Journey 10/06/2025

#307: Joel de la Fuente - Running Towards Failure 09/29/2025

#306: Rob Paulsen - I'm in the happy business 09/22/2025

#306: Rob Paulsen - I'm in the happy business Rob Paulsen is an award-winning voice-over artist, coach, and author of Voice Lessons. With over 2,000 half-hour programs, dozens of films, video games, and other animated media to his credit, Rob has been one of the industry’s hardest-working, most in-demand, and most beloved voice artists, earning him a Daytime Emmy, Peabody, and three times winning the Annie Award. For nearly three decades Rob has voiced some of the most beloved animated characters such as Pinky from Pinky and the Brain, Yakko Warner and Dr. Scratchansniff from Animaniacs, Raphael and Donatello (2012) from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Carl Wheezer from Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius, and many many more. From the start of his career voicing the character, Snow Job from G.I. Joe to his most current job reprising his characters in Steven Spielberg Presents Animaniacs on Hulu, Rob’s voice has reached millions of people worldwide. In his memoir Voice Lessons, Rob talks about how he won the biggest fight of his life, defeating cancer of the throat after a gruelling year of aggressive treatment. Rob also shared his experience in a moving TedTalk in his hometown of Detroit. As a Coach, Rob is available to talk shop by sharing his wealth of knowledge from his decades in the biz and helping people prepare for upcoming projects and or auditions. Currently, Rob spends his time in the booth, seeing fans around the USA, and trying to relax, darn it!! We chat about Rob’s incredible philosophy and mindset on life, resilience and lessons from Cancer, Animaniacs, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, why he loves what he does, his many voices, people trying to sell his signature, joining the Covenant players, living in his van, making courageous and difficult decisions plus much more! Check Rob out on: Instagram: Twitter / X: Facebook: Book (Voice Lessons): Tiktok: Website: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/38294850

#305: Al Jean - No One Knows Anything 09/15/2025

#305: Al Jean - No One Knows Anything Emmy Award-winning producer/writer Al Jean has worked on THE SIMPSONS since it became a series in 1989. He has a credit on over 600 episodes and been showrunner for 22 seasons. In addition to nine Emmy Awards, he has won two coveted Peabody Awards and was nominated for two Golden Globes. Currently he serves as executive producer and showrunner. He also served as writer and producer on “THE SIMPSONS MOVIE” (which took in over $525 million worldwide), working heavily on the film throughout its entire four-year production and was producer and writer on the Oscar-nominated short film “THE LONGEST DAYCARE” and 2020 short “PLAYDATE WITH DESTINY”. In 2021 he wrote and produced the Disney+ shorts “The Force Awakens From Its Nap” (nominated for an Emmy) and “The Good, the Bart and the Loki.” Al also co-created “The Critic” and “Teen Angel” and served as producer of “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show,” for which he won three CableACE Awards. Other television credits include “The PJ’s,” “Alf” and “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” Episodes of THE SIMPSONS Al has written or co-written include “Moaning Lisa,” “The Way We Was,” “Treehouse of Horror II & III,” “Stark Raving Dad,” “Simpsoncalifragilisticexpiala (annoyed grunt) cious,” “Hello Gutter, Hello Fadder,” “Day of the Jackanapes,” “I Won’t Be Home for Christmas”, “Mr. Lisa’s Opus”, “Daddicus Finch” and the Emmy-winning “HOMR.” Al also co-wrote Funny or Die’s “SNL Presidential Reunion Video” which is credited with helping establish the Consumer Financial Protection Agency. A graduate of Harvard University, Jean served as vice president of the college’s humor magazine, “The Harvard Lampoon.” We chat about being wanted by the FBI, the Simpsons, creating new shows, writing for The Harvard Lampon, working on Johnny Carson, going to Harvard at 16, The Critic, leadership, negative feedback, Hollywood reboots, Garry Shandling’s show, moving forward plus plenty more! Check Al out on: Twitter / X: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/38178645

#304: Mircea Monroe - Silver Linings 09/08/2025

#303: Jonathan Frakes - Failure doesn’t scare me 09/01/2025

#303: Jonathan Frakes - Failure doesn’t scare me Jonathan Frakes is a prolific director, producer and actor. He is best known to audiences for his portrayal as ‘Commander William Riker’ on “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Frakes has most recently returned to the Star Trek family by directing episodes of “Star Trek: Discovery", "Star Trek: Picard," and "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" for CBS All Access as well as the new LEVERAGE: REDEMPTION for ELECTRIC ENTERTAINMENT on IMDB TV. He discovered his love and talent in directing during his seven years starring on “Star Trek: Next Generation” and ended up directing eight episodes of the series and was also invited to direct episodes from the spin-off series “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “Star Trek: Voyager.” His other directing roles include “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “The Orville,” “Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce,” “Castle,” ”Falling Skies, “Leverage,” ”The Glades,” “Burn Notice,” “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” “Hit the Floor” among others. In addition, he was a producing director for seasons three and four of the TNT hit show “The Librarians” and directed two movies within the Librarian franchise for TNT: “The Librarian: The Curse of the Judas Chalice” and “The Librarian: Return to King Soloman’s Mine.” The role of ‘Commander William Riker’ brought him worldwide fame which led to other acting roles in several television series including “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “Angie Tribeca,” “Hit the Floor,” “Criminal Minds,” and “The Glades.” Frakes will next be seen in the Hallmark movie "A Biltmore Christmas." He has also appeared as the lead in the primetime soap ”Bare Essence” and guest-starred on several classic hit primetime series including ”Charlie’s Angels,” “Fantasy Island” and ”The Dukes of Hazzard.” Frakes received critical praise for his work as the director on the feature “Star Trek: First Contact,” making it the highest-grossing film of the franchise to date. He also directed the follow-up, ”Star Trek: Insurrection,” and the sci-fi feature “Clockstoppers.” He is an accomplished voiceover actor, with recent credits that include J'Son, king of the Spartax galactic empire and father of Peter Quill/Star-Lord on the Disney XD animated show “Guardians of the Galaxy.” His previous voice credits include “Gargoyles,” “Family Guy,” “Adventure Time,” “The Super Hero Squad Show,” “Futurama” and several Star Trek video games.  We chat about Directing and Being in Movie Jail, Star Trek, Imposter Syndrome, Thunderbirds, Gratitude, Meditation, Christopher Reeves, Acting plus plenty more! Check Jonathan out on: Instagram: Team Trek & Pancreatic Cancer (click the link on top right to donate): ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/38028420

#302: Albert Bramante - Reframing Rejection 08/25/2025

#301: Anthony Brandon Wong - Reframing our Mindset 08/18/2025

#301: Anthony Brandon Wong - Reframing our Mindset Anthony Brandon Wong is an award winning actor, who has worked for 40 years in movies, TV and theatre all over the world, a singer-songwriter and one of Australia’s most sought- after acting teachers and coaches. His numerous film and TV credits include: the role of Ghost in “The Matrix Reloaded”, “The Matrix Revolutions” and the “Enter the Matrix” video game, opposite Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jada Pinkett Smith and Hugo Weaving, Steven Soderbergh’s “Haywire” opposite Channing Tatum and Antonio Banderas, “Guns, Girls and Gambling” opposite Gary Oldman and Christian Slater, “Hemingway and Gellhorn” opposite Nicole Kidman and Clive Owen, “Queen of Oz” opposite Catherine Tate, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire”, “Glee”, “NCIS”, “Hawaii Five-0”, “Flight of the Phoenix”, “Harrow”, “Upright” and “The Twelve” Season 2 as series regular Winston Hang. Anthony played the role of Danny Law in “The Family Law” and he and his fellow cast won 3 consecutive Equity Ensemble Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. On stage, Anthony has played lead and major roles for Sydney Theatre Company, Melbourne Theatre Company, The Malthouse and State Theatre Company of South Australia and he won The Victorian Green Room Award for Best Actor in “Sex Diary of an Infidel”. Anthony played the role of the outrageous maid/butler Jacob in the stage musical "La Cage Aux Folles". As an acting teacher, Anthony has taught at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), Actors Centre Australia, Screenwise and the Q Theatre in Sydney, Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), Melbourne’s 16th Street Studios, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP), as well as in Los Angeles at TVI Studios, in Brisbane at the Australian Acting Academy, on the Gold Coast at The Warehouse Workshop Screen Acting Studio and in Byron Bay at the Actors Room. Anthony's thousands of acting students over his 30 year teaching and coaching career include Magda Szubanski, Delta Goodrem, Angus McLaren (Packed to the Rafters), Aaron Glenane (Snowpiercer), Shareena Clanton (Wentworth), Natalie Mendoza (Moulin Rouge) and Stef Dawson (The Hunger Games). Anthony is the most senior Certified Teacher of the Ivana Chubbuck Technique in Australia. Ivana Chubbuck is the world renowned coach of Oscar winners Halle Berry, Charlize Theron and Jared Leto, and Oscar nominated actors Brad Pitt, Jake Gyllenhaal, Catherine Keener, Djimon Hounsou, Kate Hudson, America Ferrera, Elisabeth Shue, Terrence Howard and Sylvester Stallone. Ivana personally trained Anthony over a period of 14 years in Los Angeles and in Australia. Anthony has also worked extensively with master teacher Larry Moss, who is the coach of Leonardo di Caprio, Hilary Swank, Tobey Maguire, Helen Hunt and Austin Butler. In addition, Anthony has studied with Eric Morris (Jack Nicholson’s coach), Elisabeth Kemp (Bradley Cooper, Hugh Jackman and Lady Gaga's coach), Margie Haber (coach of Vince Vaughan and Tea Leoni), Rowena Balos (voice trainer to Judy Davis), the Steppenwolf Company and in the Meisner and Strasberg Techniques. As a singer-songwriter, Anthony released a dance pop single "Emancipate", which can be played on all music platforms. The music video can be seen on YouTube and Vevo. We chat about the Matrix, not working for periods, handling rejection, his amazing acting classes, food, mindset, his win spreadsheet, being who you are, learning new things, gratitude plus plenty more! Check Anthony out on: Instagram: Facebook: Actors Room Byron Bay (Masterclass workshop): Anthony Brandon Wong's Acting Troupe: Food Blog: ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. /episode/index/show/funnyinfailure/id/37795345

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