Barry Katz discovered and managed Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr and Louis CK before anyone knew their names.

In this episode, we discuss how he spots talent before it breaks, the negotiation strategies that built comedy empires, and the brutal realities of artist management (including how to survive getting fired).

This is episode two of The Black Hoody Podcast with Luke Girgis, interviews with entertainment executives, agents, artists and managers building remarkable businesses.

If you have guest suggestions, email me: contact@theblackhoody.com

Emilio Savone joins me today. The owner of 5 NYC comedy clubs, a ticketing platform, a record company and management firm reveals how he built a vertically integrated empire. He explains:

▫️ Why comedy clubs make 20% profit margins while restaurants struggle at 3-5%

▫️ The custom ticketing platform that increased his sales by 3,000% tickets overnight

▫️ How he built multiple revenue streams from every comic

▫️ The biggest mistakes club owners make that kill their businesses (and how comedians sabotage their own careers)

▫️ Why treating rejection like "elite sport training" is the ultimate business advantage

▫️ His simple formula: 40% ticket sales, 55% drinks, 5% events = sustainable profits

This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone building in entertainment, hospitality, or creative industries.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, artist, or business operator, Emilio's blueprint shows how scrappy, boot strapped execution can lead to incredible businesses.