[ericmcer]

Growing up I had a group of 6ish close friends, and the goal was 100% to laugh (it kinda still is). Even when we were 13 we all knew who was funniest and who wasn't. There was no practice or work put into it. Granted standup is a totally different skillset from just riffing with friends, but some of us had the confidence, presence and ability and others were more precocious and less clever.

This new Podcast generation of comics is interesting because some stand-ups can go on a show and just riff really well. Others are not that great once they get outside their comfort areas.