136:  Harry Abrams

136: Harry Abrams

Author: Barry Katz February 29, 2016 Duration: 2:10:20
HARRY ABRAMS is the founder and CEO of Abrams Artists Agency.  He started in the mailroom of MCA, working his way up to junior agent and finally agent.  He started Abrams-Rubaloff with Noel Rubaloff after MCA disbanded, and later Abrams, Harris, & Goldberg, before eventually founding what is now Abrams Artists Agency.  Initially working with television and radio hosts, Abrams grew his businesses to work with stage and film actors as well.  Over the years, Abrams has worked with Bob Barker, Gary Owens, Arte Johnson, Bob Eubanks, Wink Martindale, Jim Lang, Jaclyn Smith, Bob Crane, Chick Hearn, Jennifer Lopez, Katie Holmes, Liam Neeson, and Kerry Washington. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Barry Katz has spent decades in the trenches as a comedy manager and producer, and in Industry Standard w/ Barry Katz, he uses that unique position to pull back the curtain on how entertainment really gets made. This isn't a theoretical discussion about Hollywood; it's a series of conversations with the actual decision-makers-the writers, directors, executives, and fellow producers who operate behind the scenes. Each episode feels like sitting in on a private lunch where these players get candid about the pivotal, often risky choices that shaped iconic projects across film, television, and digital media. The tone is conversational and grounded in real experience, offering an insider's perspective that you rarely hear presented so frankly. By focusing on the stories of creation and the hurdles cleared along the way, the podcast provides a genuine, all-access pass to the machinery of show business. You'll hear how unexpected breakthroughs happen and what it actually takes to get groundbreaking content into the world. Barry's background in comedy naturally informs the dialogue, making even complex industry tales engaging and accessible. For anyone curious about the human elements of creativity and commerce that collide in entertainment, this podcast serves as an essential guide. It’s about the practical wisdom and occasional chaos that define the industry standard, told by the people who set it.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 500

Industry Standard w/ Barry Katz
Podcast Episodes
Danny Robinson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:26:25
Danny Robinson is a talent agent who got his start in the mail room. Before that, he was on the road with his parents as a part of their closing act. Growing up on the road, Danny learned a lot about the entertainment in…
Ask Me Anything 15 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:50
In this Ask Me Anything episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, Barry dives into practical advice for comedians at every stage of their career. He shares insights on writing and originality, drawing lessons from co…
Ed Bassmaster [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:18:02
In this episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, viral YouTube pioneer Ed Bassmaster shares his incredible journey from working retail at an AT&T store to becoming one of the most recognizable character comedians on…
Michael Madsen Classic Rerelease [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:21:27
In this gripping episode of Industry Standard with Barry Katz, legendary actor Michael Madsen opens up like never before. From almost missing out on his iconic role as Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs to improvising unforget…
Peter Engel Classic Rerelease [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:17
In Memory of Peter Engel June 30, 1936 - March 4, 2025In this classic rerelease episode, Legendary TV producer Peter Engel joins Barry Katz to share wild stories from his career, spanning his early days around Saturday N…
Cris Italia [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:29:26
In this emotional and insightful episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz sits down with comedy club mogul Cris Italia to talk about building “The Stand,” coping with loss, and shaping the careers of comics like Pete Dav…
Ask Me Anything 14 w/ Barry Katz [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:52
In this heartfelt “Ask Me Anything” episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz answers audience questions about navigating the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of originality, adaptability, and resilience…
Ask Me Anything 13 w/ Barry Katz [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:16
In this powerful AMA episode, legendary comedy manager Barry Katz breaks down what separates the good from the unforgettable in stand-up comedy. He shares why having a distinct voice — one that’s instantly recognizable —…
Adam Ray Classic Rerelease [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:05:00
In this episode of Industry Standard, comedian and actor Adam Ray—best known for his spot-on Dr. Phil impression—opens up about the defining moments of his childhood that led him to a career in comedy. From being an over…
Chris Myers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:27
Legendary sportscaster Chris Myers has been the voice behind some of the biggest moments in sports — from Super Bowls and World Series to the Olympics and beyond. But in this episode of INDUSTRY STANDARD, he opens up lik…