Tom taught me how to organize my thoughts in outline and how to “unpack” my jokes getting his feed back and structure was huge for me. After only one session, he had helped me focus my efforts and thoughts on paper. I saw a huge improvement in confidence on stage as the class progressed. Tom was patient, easy to understand, highly intelligent, punctual, and flexible during our writing sessions. Your future self will thank you!  Thanks Tom!

I had only two things left on my bucket list. Climb Mt. Everest or take a stand-up comedy class. Sure glad I chose the latter of the two. I thought it would be fun but it exceeded all of my expectations. The six weeks just flew by. Could hardly wait for the next class to begin.

Tom Riehl is a genius as a teacher, mentor and psychiatrist. If you ever wanted to know if you have the talent for stand-up this is the class for you. Want to know how to put a comedy routine together, set ups, punch lines —-this is the class for you. You have the magic formula. It works.

I LOVED the collaboration effort – really helped tighten my set.

This class rocks. You’re a true professional at comedy, and a natural teacher. And I loved being comfortable to rib each other (and even you) at the end. You took good care of us all! You teach without limiting or censuring, which I think gives the most room for growth. You’ll share your opinion, but if someone still holds to what they believe, you let them. That is ultimately very freeing.

For some time I’ve had all these observations and thoughts written down but was never sure how to craft them into something that might get a laugh. Having gone through the class I have a much better sense of that process now. I also really enjoyed the process of performing the material the way I imagined it in my head.

The relaxed setting, and having the opportunity to unwind and share before digging in each week was great. It helped the process to get to know each other, to feel safe and I think it enhanced the process. The materials were comprehensive and the worksheets a fun tool to open up our creativity and get ideas flowing.
This was a life changer! Even if I never get up on stage again (although I REALLY want to) it was a growth experience like few others. Tom is a natural teacher with the perfect combination of patience, encouragement and the ability to critique while keeping even the most fragile of us (who shall remain nameless…) intact. He’s funny as hell too!