
Canadian Comedy Award winners Rob Norman and Adam Cawley discuss weekly improv-based topics based on a theme.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 207 | Founded | 12 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ArtsEducation | |||

This week Rob and Adam, discuss the painful but necessary process of “Paying the Tax” , while trying to stay present, apply class lessons, and putting in the reps. Despite all of that, the laughs still aren’t coming. If you’ve ever felt stuck between... more
This week, Rob and Adam turn their attention to the concept “Day of All Days.” It’s a phrase that suggests high stakes and life-changing moments, yet so many of the most memorable scenes revolve around the smallest, most ordinary situations. Why do m... more
This week, Rob and Adam explore how to navigate scenes with a partner who brings a limited emotional range. Together they break down the difference between performing emotion and truly embodying it, and offer practical ways to create better scenes us... more
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AC and Rob, you two are a dynamic duo. The Batman and The Robin of improv podcasting, The Cheech and Cong of improv philosophy, and The Luke and Darth Vader of improv lore (you can take all of these nicknames as you will). I have been reading Will Hines Substack and I found one key philosophy interesting Know, Care, Say to make every scene interesting. I noticed within my own scenes when I’m truly invested I can be vulnerable, open and find the funny in the scene quicker. I was wondering if y’al... more
Basically a free coaching session whenever I want. (I try to listen to an episode in the hours before a show to get in the right headspace, set goals, find inspiration.)
This show is absolutely wonderful. It is so rare to find a show that focuses on the improv craft, and especially a show that teaches the craft with a combination of fun and tangible practical knowledge.
The hosts have a lovely rapport. Their friendship and their love for improv makes this show a true joy. They are so funny, sincere, warm, smart, and full of practical improv wisdom.
Listening to this show brightens my day, and gives me confidence through my improv journey. I hope you get to l... more
I love this show and I’m working through the back catalogue…..hoping it will return one day!
(update) THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR COMING BACK! I’m kind of an easy crier (which works for and against me in improv since I also cry when I laugh) but….I think a tear came to my eye when the new episode dropped last week
I love this show and I’m working through the back catalogue…..hoping it will return one day!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.









Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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A conversation-driven show by two seasoned improvisers that centers on craft, teaching methods, and the practical mechanics of performance. Episodes frequently cover core improv topics like scene work, character choices, audience engagement, and the balance between structure and spontaneity, often illustrated with personal teaching anecdotes, festival experiences, and current industry trends. Listeners can expect actionable tips for improving scenes, guidance on teaching and learning improv, and thoughtful debates about honesty, risk, and emotional investment on stage. The format tends to blend technical breakdowns with warm, personality-driven banter, making it approachable for both newer improvisers and veterans seeking deeper technique. more
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These podcasts share a similar audience with The Backline:
1. This American Life
2. The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart
3. The Ezra Klein Show
4. The Daily Show: Ears Edition
5. Off Book: The Improvised Musical
The Backline launched 12 years ago and published 207 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on The Backline include:
1. Susan Messing
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