Season 3 / Episode #9: Finding the Funny with Roanoke Comedy Fest
Our August episode is talking all things stand-up — and how the Roanoke Comedy Fest is putting our city on the comedy map! Joining us are festival producers Johnny Camacho, a Roanoker Mag 40 Under 40 alum and local comedy staple, and Taylor Reschka, a sharp-witted stand-up and regular contributor behind the camera at The Roanoker. Together, they’ve transformed Roanoke Comedy Fest into a multi-day celebration of talent, community and connection — with 2025 shaping up to be its biggest year yet.
We dig into what it really takes to step up to the mic: the nerves, the writing process, the hecklers, the highs and lows — and why they keep coming back for more. Whether you're a longtime fan or curious about trying stand-up yourself, we pull back the curtain on the craft and culture of comedy. They also give us a sneak peek at this year’s stacked lineup, from big-name headliners to all-women brunch shows where the laughs (and mimosas) are flowing. We talk about how the festival got its start, what goes into curating talent and producing a multi-day event and why Roanoke’s comedy scene is one to watch.
So sit back, relax, and prepare for a masterclass in comedy — no two-drink minimum required.
_
A huge thank you to Johnny, Taylor and the entire Roanoke Comedy Fest crew for keeping the laughs coming and for helping Roanoke find its funny bone — and reminding us all that sometimes the best way to connect is with a well-timed joke.
We’ll be back soon with more episodes celebrating the people and places that make our region shine.
See our video below or on YouTube:
Episode 9 featuring Johnny Camacho and Taylor Reschka of Roanoke Comedy Fest:
Ready for a weekend full of laughs? Snag your tickets and see the full lineup of comedians, workshops and more at Roanoke Comedy Fest HERE.
Roanoke Comedy Fest
Love what you heard? Don't miss a single episode! Click here to subscribe and listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts from your favorite device!