On this episode of Cawfee Tawk, Tara sits down with writer, comic, Marine, producer, and director Royale Watkins. We talk about how the comedy world isn't just about the laughs you get on stage, but the time we spend together off stage, the back-in-the-day shows that shaped us, and being ready when opportunity knocks.
Royale opens up about serving in Desert Storm, remembering moments where he thought he might die—and how being funny became a lifeline because laughter was truly all they had. He shares how a high-school teacher drove him to school his senior year after he moved out of town, how the class clown became the comic, and how his 4'8" mom—who we lovingly called the "fire hydrant/johnny pump"—used physical punishment as the only power she felt she had.
We reminisce about our childhoods, the trauma we grew through, and the place you eventually get to where you can look at your parents and say, "They did the best they could with what they had." Royale remembers being a "smart aleck," how once the kids got bigger than his mom she started recording them to play it back when Dad got home, and how those moments shaped the man—and the father—he grew into. Today he's spoiling his kids, evolving, healing, and passing on the lessons.
Royale also dives into his iconic Mixtape Comedy Show, wisdom he's picked up from greats like Chris Rock, and the mindset that's carried him through every phase of his life:
Just keep going.
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Welcome to Cawfee Tawk with Tara Cannistraci AKA TaraJokes! Join comedian Tara Cannistraci every Monday! Tara reflects on the week that was or the life that was, whether it's nostalgia about NYC life, current trends, or real-life stories. This podcast is perfectly timed to accompany your morning coffee. Good morning, fellow cawfee lovers!
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Tara Cannistraci is an Italian-American comedian, actress, and writer, hailing from the vibrant streets of the Bronx, New York. Tara's talents have lit up the stage, television, film, and even centerfield as the scoreboard host for the New York Yankees.
Tara brought her unfiltered, humorous take on popular sports topics to SNY's Emmy award-winning television show "Oh Yeah," where she both wrote for and featured in the series. Currently, she co-hosts the Chazz Palminteri Show podcast, captivating audiences with her honest insights and vivacious personality. She also co-produced and starred in We Stand Comedy's multi award-winning short film "The Chart" showcasing her versatility & misdirecting sense of humor.
On social media, Tara has gained a following by sharing the words and phrases she grew up hearing in her New York Italian neighborhood, resonating with people across the country. Her comedy album, "I'm Talkin' Here," is a regular feature on Sirius XM.
Tara's new YouTube series, "Boroughbreds," features her doing hilarious on-the-street interviews throughout the New York boroughs, highlighting all things New York from common phrases to family owned businesses.
Tara has opened for comedy heavyweights like Josh Wolf, Joey Diaz and Vic DiBitetto, and now headlines shows across the U.S. and Canada. Her authenticity and wit continue to win over audiences wherever she performs!
