This episode features Boston-based multi-hyphenate entertainer Deadair Dennis Maler, a comedian, actor, writer, podcaster, and all-around creative force. Host Jeff Revilla dives deep into Dennis’s eclectic background, unique career path, and the roots that shaped his journey in entertainment.Want to livestream and record podcasts like we do? Check out these links and build your empire!Transistor FM - for podcast hostinghttps://transistor.fm/?via=podutyCastmagic - to make written content from your audio podcasthttps://get.castmagic.io/ugp958dba02xStreamyard - for livestreaming and recording podcast episodeshttps://streamyard.com/pal/c/6282618417446912In This Episode:From Baltimore to Boston:Dennis shares his upbringing in Baltimore County and how his blue-collar, mixed-ethnic neighborhood influenced his worldview. After spending 31 years in the area (including stints around D.C.), he moved to Boston in pursuit of his creative dreams.Early Passion for Performing:Diagnosed with what Kevin Pollak calls the “Hey, look at me!” disorder, Dennis was the classic middle child desperate for attention. From childhood theater and improvisation to using whatever tech he could find, Dennis was obsessed with performance and creation, even before he had the tools.Educational Detours & Serendipity:Dreaming of a practical career, Dennis first considered civil engineering but quickly switched gears to study radio, television, and broadcast journalism after a moment of inspiration (and a disappointing grant snafu). Multiple associate’s degrees later, he honed his technical and creative prowess on both sides of the mic.The Radio Bug:Dennis describes the magic and allure of local radio in the late ‘80s and ‘90s—a hub of music, comedy, and personality. He shares how the immediacy, intimacy, and technical challenge of radio hooked him for life, leading to a gig with Clear Channel, and sparking his insatiable appetite to create and entertain.Opportunistic or Strategic?A self-identified entertainer rather than “just a comedian,” Dennis reveals the crossroads he faced: focus on stand-up, or leverage radio and media to amplify his comedic career? His honest reflection on regret, hustle, and strategic planning is insightful for anyone drawn to the creative arts.First Time on Stage (And Eating It):From his first stand-up routine at 10 years old to his “official” comedic debut (complete with bombs, adjustments, and a side serving of humble pie), Dennis breaks down what it’s really like to chase laughs and work through those early years of “eating dick” on stage.DIY Punk Spirit & Podcasting:True to the ethos of his punk/DIY roots, Dennis embraced independent content creation early—audio, video, interviews, and more—long before it was cool (or easy). Podcasting naturally followed, blending his radio skills, creative curiosity, and passion for getting to the heart of artists’ backstories.On “So What Do You Really Do?”Dennis’s podcast shines a light on the day jobs and side hustles of artists, from famous comedians like Jim Jefferies and Jessica Kirson to up-and-coming creatives with fascinating double lives. It’s about how people feed their passion for the stage by working all kinds of gigs to make it happen.Touring Boston as “UK Lee Duck”:Discover how Dennis performs comedic, historic tours of Boston in the guise of “UK Lee Duck”—his storytelling skills turn city landmarks into engaging, memorable experiences.Key Takeaways:Persistence and Flexibility: Dennis’s story highlights the importance of adapting, learning, and being willing to start from scratch—whether that means switching majors, relocating, or bombing for months at comedy mics.Creative Cross-Pollination: Technical know-how and creative passion can feed each other; being “multi-hyphenate” is a strength, not a weakness.Importance of Day Jobs: Even seasoned comics and entertainers work “normal” jobs to support their creative endeavors.Community and DIY Spirit: Building a network, supporting other artists, and doing the work yourself will open doors—often in surprising ways.Where to Find Deadair Dennis:Podcast: So What Do You Really Do? on the Big Comedy Network (also on YouTube)Tour Info: UK Lee Duck 80-Minute Comedy Tours in BostonWebsite: DeadairDennis.comJeff’s Takeaway:Deadair Dennis Maler’s journey is a masterclass in chasing your passion, pivoting when needed, and embracing every facet of entertainment—from the spotlight to the soundboard to the streets of Boston. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or just love behind-the-scenes stories, this episode delivers energy, humor, and loads of inspiration.Like what you hear? Subscribe to “My Guest Tonight” for more in-depth artist stories and creative life lessons.https://myguesttonight.com/
