Scott Long: Comedy Road Warrior
In a lively and humorous episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, presented by Wellabe, Maxwell sits down with Iowa-born comedian Scott Long to discuss his unique and often unpredictable career in stand-up comedy. From performing for Amish communities to corporate gigs and fundraisers, Scott shares his experiences with candid storytelling and self-deprecating wit, making for a compelling conversation.
The episode kicks off with Scott recounting one of the most unusual gigs of his career—a comedy performance booked by an Amish group. Initially unaware of their Amish background, Scott describes the surprise he felt when he learned the truth just a week before the show. The performance, held without a microphone and preceded by a harmonica duet of Christmas songs, was an unforgettable challenge for Scott, whose clean comedy still didn’t quite align with the ultra-traditional expectations of his hosts. He shares how he involved his family in the experience, both as a shield and as a lesson in hard work, ultimately leaving with a greater appreciation for his craft and the people he entertained.
Maxwell and Scott delve into his career transition from club comedy to corporate events, a shift prompted by both personal and professional considerations. Scott, who once performed edgier material inspired by comedy legends like George Carlin and Dennis Miller, realized over time that clean comedy opened more doors. Now, his career consists primarily of corporate gigs and fundraisers, which, while financially rewarding, present unique challenges—like performing under fluorescent lights in conference rooms with obstructed views. His ability to engage audiences of all ages through improvisational humor has become his trademark, making each performance a collaborative experience.
A particularly touching segment of the conversation centers on Scott’s daughter, Maddie, who is on the autism spectrum. He discusses how their popular “Happy Monday with Maddie” video series began as a way to encourage her to speak more and has since reached a global audience. Through these videos, Scott shares both the joys and struggles of raising a child with autism, offering a rare and honest portrayal of daily life that resonates with many families. The discussion highlights the importance of representation and advocacy for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and Scott reflects on the challenges of booking comedy fundraisers for autism-related organizations despite his personal connection to the cause.
The conversation also touches on the rise of Caitlin Clark, the Iowa basketball phenomenon, and the cultural shift she has brought to women’s sports. As a long-time supporter of Iowa women’s basketball, Scott provides insightful commentary on the impact of Clark’s legacy and the newfound national attention to the sport.
Scott’s storytelling, filled with humor and heart, makes this episode a must-listen. His tales of navigating different comedy landscapes—whether facing an audience of Amish farmers, 97-year-old finance clients, or die-hard basketball fans—showcase his adaptability and comedic brilliance. Maxwell’s thoughtful and engaging interview style draws out both the laughs and the deeper messages behind Scott’s journey, making for an entertaining and insightful episode that captures the essence of Iowa’s rich storytelling tradition.
