Episode 54: Can Comics Say Whatever They Want?

In this episode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell tackle one of comedy’s most loaded questions: what happens when free speech meets the stage? Using the recent Jimmy Kimmel controversy as a springboard, they dig into the long history of censorship in comedy, from Lenny Bruce getting arrested for obscenity to George Carlin’s infamous “Seven Dirty Words” Supreme Court battle.

But this isn’t just a history lesson. Vince and Dobie share raw personal stories of being censored on the road, from getting banned at clubs to being cut off mid-show, and even losing radio and tour opportunities because of a single joke.

Together, they explore the fine line between freedom of expression and real-world consequences, why some comics thrive by pushing boundaries, and how audiences’ expectations shape what’s acceptable on stage.

Key Points Discussed:

• Why censorship has always existed in comedy, from vaudeville to today
• The impact of Lenny Bruce and George Carlin on free speech in stand-up
• Vince’s stories of getting censored at clubs and shows
• Dobie’s Tuscaloosa story and getting banned from Bob & Tom
• How “dirty,” “clean,” and “filthy” are often audience and venue expectations
• The difference between free speech and freedom from consequences

This episode is part history, part confession, and all comedy, a reminder that every laugh comes with a line, and it’s the comic’s job to find it.