Amy Beth Castleberry is a girl’s girl
What were you like as a teen?
I was hilarious, creative, and sometimes a bit out there. I was definitely memorable to others, but didn’t know standup comedy was an option for me! I did as many public speaking opportunities I had through what my parents allowed: church and 4-H Club.
Did you have an un-sexy starter job?
My first job out of college was being a Starbucks barista, but I jumped into working at a newspaper as a graphic designer 3 months later!
What do you consider to be your biggest comedy achievement?
Performing at The Velveeta, which is the longest running comedy club in Austin, Texas (since 1988) on 6th street! It was a dream come true and a great first time on that stage.
When you were coming up in comedy, what helped you stick with it?
Therapy. And my friends and family who believed in me when I had a hard time believing in myself. They really should get a lot more credit!
Have you ever dealt with trolls? Hecklers?
I’ve dealt with a few, but the first one that comes to mind is one of my first shows. In the audience, a drunk woman got mad that I was mocking her on stage and threatened to punch me… I said, “Not a girl’s girl, huh? I’m gonna go talk to this side of the room.” and moved on. She and her drunk friends left right after.
Another time, recently, I was doing jokes about my larger than life boobs and a guy took the opportunity to make a sexual comment from the front row? What did he say? I don’t even remember. I blacked out and was able to call him out right there on stage, with his girlfriend right next to him. He apologized afterwards (when I got off stage), to which I said “Thank you” and moved on.
On your deathbed, what transcendent advice would you croak at a young comedian?
Learn to laugh or you’ll die inside for the rest of your life.
Best comedy advice you ever got?
If you’re not using the mic stand, move it behind you. It’s distracting when we can’t see you!
Worst comedy advice you ever got?
“You should go on Kill Tony.” How about, NO?
How has being funny helped you in your life?
Being funny is how I’ve gotten through every traumatic experience in life. My dad, Granny, and Pops all taught me that we can only do the best we can and make the best of it. Laughing so we don’t cry. Life is too hard to make it harder on ourselves by staying negative.
What specific things do you think a novice comic or comedy writer should do to shape their voice?
Write with others! Comedy writing hardly comes from our own brains, because ultimately Standup Comedy is about sharing your POV in a creative conversational fashion. You can really only get that type of good work from working with other creatives.
Was there one person who inspired you to go into comedy?
My Denver “mom” and mentor said I should get into it (before my divorce), then really encouraged me during my divorce in 2022. So I said, “FINE!”
Do you have a writing routine?
This has evolved over time, but I rewrite out my sets before I go perform as a form of memorization. I used to be more strict with myself in the beginning, but I usually am writing as ideas become inspired by life circumstances, conversations, and continuing comedy. It’s really easy to carry around a tiny notebook in your purse. Hell, use your phone’s Notes app!
What is your go-to show or movie?
It’s a mix between Friends, SpongeBob SquarePants, or Whose Line Is it Anyway compilations on YouTube.
What single word always cracks you up?
Booty hole.
