Shows
Open the CurtainsJake ThornburgA wild Jake Thornburg appears! On this episode, we talk about polyamorism, chronic illnesses, and sticking it to the man. 2025-06-101h 19
Open the CurtainsEnrique GomezThis week we talk to Enrique Gomez! (Fps, Pirate Shanty Night, sketch comedy) We discuss feeling lost, thrifting and theater classes in college.2025-05-071h 30
Open the CurtainsJeremy LawOn this week's episode, we talk with the excellent Jeremy Law. He's charming, funny and has been doing improv for a long time. There is lots of great advice about living a creative life and becoming the best version of yourself. Don't miss it!2025-04-011h 24
Open the CurtainsGarren MillerThis week we have Garren Miller on the pod! We talk about things like working in "the industry," bad doctors and pursuing a passion. 2025-03-181h 28
Open the CurtainsAutumnn RaeWelcome to Season 3 of the pod! This week we talk to Autumnn Rae! An early member of the Improv Collective. Some of the topics we discuss are losing friends, thoughts of suicide, and finding joy. 2025-03-041h 15
Open the CurtainsRichard MartinezOwner of the Playful Stage in Long Beach California, Richard Martinez joins us to discuss starting a theater, uncertainty and pursuing passion.2024-11-121h 58
Open the CurtainsSteve MalsamThis week, Steve Malsam is in the booth! In this episode, we discuss feeling ugly, leaving the midwest, and dating.2024-10-291h 03
Open the CurtainsBryce VerketThis week on the pod we welcome Bryce Verket! In this episode, we talk about how mentors shape you, getting diagnosed, and being your best self. 2024-10-151h 08
Open the CurtainsErik EscobarStand up comedian and imrpovisor Erik Escobar joins us! We talk about traveling for comedy, raising a family and writing jokes.2024-10-011h 08
Open the CurtainsJoseph Adam DunnImprov practitioner Adam Dunn is on the pod! On this episode, we talk about moving around a lot, making bold character choices, and alcoholism.2024-09-171h 25
Open the CurtainsDevin DuganThis week we have on Devin Dugan! Owner of Improv City in Tustin. We have a great chat about the history of comedy, running a theater and writing books. 2024-09-031h 24
Open the CurtainsTivoli JensenThis week on the pod we have Tivoli! We talk about her history with beauty pagents, being a mom and depression. 2024-08-201h 20
Open the CurtainsAlex LeeAlex Lee is on the pod! We talk about dissecting a whale, feeling lonely and Whale dissection talk0:00- 13:53Improv Talk13:53-End Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-08-061h 22
#dkLa! Pirate RadioEp# 186 Obsessions vs. Passions (feat. Derek Luetjen - Derek Dumb Hobbies)Swiss knife man 😁
We’re pumped to share this week's #dkLa episode featuring Derek, host of the podcast Derek Dumb Hobbies. Derek's done it all: American Ninja Warrior contestant, stand-up comedian, improv artist, storyteller, competitive cheerleader, and tumbling coach for 16 years!
Join us as we dive into his incredible journey filled with laughs, challenges, and triumphs. You won't want to miss these inspiring stories from a life lived to the fullest.
Read the Blog Post here:
And help Layeh-Arte Simple Atelier Estúdio! Buy the episode merch here: 2024-08-061h 36
Open the CurtainsAsic KhatchatryanThis week on the pod we talk to improv veteran Asic Khatchatryan! We discuss anxiety, rock climbing and taking advice from peers. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-07-231h 28
Open the CurtainsEdwin TrovadaImprovisor and Stand up performer Edwin Trovada is on the pod! We talk about low self-esteem, divorce, and chronic illnesses. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies. 2024-07-091h 33
Open the CurtainsJulie HockingThis week we interview Julie Hocking! We discuss horse gymnastics, getting sober, and making life changes. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies2024-06-251h 17
Open the CurtainsJuan VelascoWith an improv background spanning over 2 decades, Juan is a world traveler, a coach, and a wonderful interviewee! Please, Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-06-111h 25
Open the CurtainsHolly BeightolOn this week's episode, we talk to Holly Beightol! She has been improvising/performing for decades. We talk about transitioning, acceptance, and chasing your fears.Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-05-281h 36
Open the CurtainsRedda TalhouniThis week we interview Redda Talhouni! A wonderfully talented performer in both Stand up and Improv. We talk about escaping being hunted, Improv talk starts at 17:30Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-05-141h 21
Open the CurtainsJoe SalasOn this week's episode, we talk to Joe Salas! We discuss social anxiety, traveling for improv, and dementia Please, support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-04-301h 26
Open the CurtainsAustin BennettOn this week's episode, we talk to Austin Bennett! A long-time improviser in the OC scene! We get into the nitty-gritty of hypothetical animal fights, ADHD, and Christianity.Please, support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-04-161h 38
Open the CurtainsSeason 2 KickoffZach and Derek discuss some goals for the pod this year, set some expectations for the coming season and humbly ask for your support on Patreon if you can spare it. Survey Link!https://forms.gle/Gs96LkBsKznvsedN7Patreon Link!https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=208633292024-04-0211 min
Open the CurtainsClayton MooreOn this week's episode, we talk to Clayton Moore! We talk about being homeschooled, dyslexia, and how to be understanding of our partner's needs. Please Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2024-04-021h 31
Open the CurtainsTim BadonskyOn this week's episode, we talk to Tim Badonsky aka Grey Ponytail on Discord! He has dabbled in improv since the 90’s, has overcome a long history of depression, and shares his life story with us. Check it out!Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2023-12-051h 40
Open the CurtainsZach and DerekThis week we interviewed each other! We ask each other the big 3 questions and talk too much as always. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies.2023-11-281h 39
Open the CurtainsJames StebickOn this week's episode, we talk to James Stebick! He is part of the old guard and has been doing improv for 20 years!!! We talk about anxiety, how children has affected him and how to find time for anything. Support us in patreon! https://patreon.com/OpentheCurtains?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkJoin Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for p...2023-11-211h 54
Open the CurtainsDustyn WilloughbyThis week we had a wonderful chat with Dustyn Willoughby. A long-time friend of the host and a wonderful coach. He is the 4-time champion coach of IFL our improv sports league and a former stand-up comedian. We talk about best practices on stage, finding work to support your hobbies and dating.Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the...2023-11-142h 12
Open the CurtainsRobert SoudersOn this week's episode, we are thrilled to have Robert Souders! He is the owner of the Improv Collective and overall a great guy. We talk about running the theater, dealing with perverts, and alleged crimes. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unapologetic optimist. As the ADHD flows like wine, listen as the two...2023-11-071h 33
Open the CurtainsMaviene TranOn this week's episode, we talk to Maviene Tran! She is the a writer and performer on No MSG Added, dreams of writing plays and performs with her college team Funny People Society. We talk about mental health, overcoming suicidal thoughts, and making friends. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unapologetic optimist. As the...2023-10-311h 44
Open the CurtainsDrew OkinoOn this week's episode, we talk to Drew Okino! He is a newer improviser but has a famous laugh in our community. We talk about autism, history, and dementia. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unapologetic optimist. As the ADHD flows like wine, listen as the two barely stay on top...2023-10-241h 42
Open the CurtainsLyndale StarksOn this week's episode, we talk to Lyndale Starks! She had a tough lockdown but is back with her head up high and ready to mingle! She has always been a powerhouse on stage but lately has been struggling to connect with people off stage. She is on the pod today talking about her depression and family.Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and op...2023-10-171h 26
Open the CurtainsJac Wandzura On this week's episode, we talk to Jac Wandzura! She has been coaching for over a decade and loves improv maybe more than anyone we've had on before! She was Derek's first-ever improv team coach, loves math, and is a wonderful dog mom! Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unap...2023-10-101h 25
Open the CurtainsAlex RaymondOn this week's episode, we talk to Alex Raymond! He is a newer improviser but a long-time competitive gamer, and music producer. We talk about being a 90-day fiance, gaming, and smells.Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unapologetic optimist. As the ADHD flows like wine, listen as the two ba...2023-10-031h 47
Open the CurtainsZach PayneOn this week's episode, we talk to Zach Payne! He recently moved away to Bakersfield but has been a beloved member of the OC improv community for over a decade. We talk about his former marriage to a woman, being gay and Christian, and overall we have a lovely chat with our friend right before me move away. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neu...2023-09-261h 44
Open the CurtainsJennifer ChoyOn this week's episode, we talk to Jennifer Choy! She is a talented performer, a cat mom, and sweeter than honey. We talk about not feeling great at things, taking joy in little things, and dog farts. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unapologetic optimist. As the ADHD flows like win...2023-09-191h 43
Open the CurtainsMina BarsoumOn this week's episode, we talk to Mina Barsoum! He is the coach of Funny People Society, a performer on No Fourth Wall and IFL. We talk about body dysmorphia, not being able to communicate with family and the difficulties of finding a good improv coach. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and...2023-09-121h 32
Open the CurtainsEric VueOn this week's episode, we talk to Eric Vue! He is the head writer and producer of No MSG Added, an all asian sketch team, also, he's a guitarist and teacher. We talk about being a minority of a minority, body dysmorphia, and choosing to pursue art even though you know it will disappoint your parents. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they open the curtains of the Orange County comedy community to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health issues, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and ope...2023-09-052h 06
Open the CurtainsRoxy TheoOn this week's episode, we talk to Roxy Theo! She is an IFL performer, therapist, and dancing fiend. We talk about meditation, anxiety, and meeting our parent's expectations. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they take a look behind the curtains of the Orange County comedy community and beyond to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health issues, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unapologetic optimist. As the ADHD flows like wine, listen as the...2023-08-291h 45
Open the CurtainsJoey ShopeIn this week's episode, we talk to Joey Shope! Local OC Celebrity, Pictures of Spaghetti, IFL co-creator. We dive into topics like childhood loneliness, our missions in life, and the afterlife.Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they take a look behind the curtains of the Orange County comedy community and beyond to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health issues, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an unapologetic optimist. As the ADHD flows like wi...2023-08-221h 41
Open the CurtainsSam ForbesOn this week's episode we talk to Sam Forbes who you might know from Pictures of Spaghetti or from his role as Odor in a recent Old Spice ad. On this episode, we chat about pursuing dreams over money, dealing with watching others succeed, and letting down business partners. Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they take a look behind the curtains of the Orange County comedy community and beyond to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health issues, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Der...2023-08-152h 00
Open the CurtainsJosh HeimendingerYou might know Josh from his trips to Improv Utopia. He is a staple in the OC improv scene; coaching several teams and gives back to use in countless ways. In this episode we talk about his recent divorce, being blindsided by ADHD and finding ways to make friends as an adult. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron Join Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they take a look behind the curtains of the Orange County comedy community and beyond to discuss their guest’s ins...2023-08-081h 56
Open the CurtainsLiam Holton Derek and Zach interview Liam Holton (formerly Pictures of Spaghetti, IFL) about his acting history, pipe tobacco, and stronger performance on stage. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patron(Nothing discussed on this podcast of this is meant to be medical advice or a professional diagnosis.)More info on Zach can be found at ZachRobinsTherapy.com.You can follow Derek on all social media platforms @dereksdumbhobbies. 2023-08-012h 36
Open the CurtainsSam VivoniaDerek and Zach interview Sam Vivonia (IFL, stand-up) about her history in comedy and discuss autism, not putting up with bullshit and leadership.Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patronJoin Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they take a look behind the curtains of the Orange County comedy Community and beyond to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health issues, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long-time staple in the comedy community and an una...2023-07-251h 29
Open the CurtainsMatt ThomasDerek and Zach interview Matt Thomas (Who's Copyright is it Anyway, Teachers' Lounge) about his history in comedy and discuss ADHD, relationships, and fixing the world with a universal basic income. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patronJoin Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they take a look behind the curtains of the Orange County comedy Community and beyond to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health issues, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long...2023-07-172h 45
Open the CurtainsKyle PearsonDerek and Zach interview Kyle Pearson (We'll Adapt) about his history with comedy and discuss creativity, anger, and relationships. You can follow Kyle on all social media @OctoRobo Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/OpentheCurtains/membership?view_as=patronJoin Derek Luetjen and Zach Robins as they take a look behind the curtains of the Orange County comedy Community and beyond to discuss their guest’s inspiration for performing, mental health issues, and everything in between. Zach is a Psychotherapist, improviser, and open neurotic. Derek is a long...2023-07-091h 46
Open the CurtainsIntroduction to the PodDerek And Zach introduce themselves and fill you in on what you can expect from the podcast.2023-07-0900 min
The Follow-Up ShowdownEp. 14 - "Houseguest" w/ Derek Luetjen & Jack Seavor McDonaldGuests Derek Luetjen and Jack Seavor McDonald join Paul in wondering about butt slap origins as they continue the story of 1995's "Houseguest."2020-09-2859 min