Podcast Summary: The Bonfire with Big Jay Oakerson and Robert Kelly – Episode: "Having A Good Time with Dusty Slay"

Release Date: August 7, 2025

In this lively and engaging episode of The Bonfire hosted by Big Jay Oakerson and Robert Kelly, the comedians delve deep into the intricacies of the comedy scene, focusing particularly on the challenges and humorous anecdotes surrounding merch sales and touring. The episode features a special guest appearance by fellow comedian Dusty Slay, whose candid stories and witty commentary add a rich layer to the conversation.

1. Welcome and Introduction of Dusty Slay (00:28 - 01:00)

The episode kicks off with Big Jay Oakerson and Robert Kelly warmly welcoming Dusty Slay, highlighting his new Netflix special, "Wet Heat". Dusty shares his upcoming tour dates, spreading excitement among listeners.

• Robert Kelly: "Got to be Slay's in the house. One of our favorites. One of my favorites. We love you."
  (00:33)

2. First Meeting and Merch Mishap (01:00 - 05:00)

Robert recounts his initial encounter with Dusty, which was less than favorable. Dusty arrived at an improv show with an oversized suitcase, intent on selling his merch. This led to an amusing exchange about merch sales and personal appearances.

• Robert Kelly: "And I really did not like you the first time I met you."
  (01:00)

• Big Jay Oakerson: "And he goes, hey, man, you mind if I sell my merch?"
  (01:47)

Dusty humorously negotiates with Robert about selling merch, leading to a realization of Dusty's genuine comedic talent after watching his set.

• Dusty Slay: "But you're absolutely right, though... it's not a path that a lot of comedians take anymore."
  (04:03)

3. The Struggles of Selling Merch (05:00 - 12:00)

The conversation shifts to the challenges comedians face when selling merchandise, especially for those who are featured acts. Robert expresses his frustrations with middling performers dominating merch sales, often earning more than the headliners.

• Robert Kelly: "I always thought I was doing a disservice to a middler. Letting him sell all his shirts..."
  (05:00)

Dusty shares a story about a female comic who struggled with selling merch and ended up gambling away her earnings, highlighting the pitfalls of relying solely on merch sales for income.

• Dusty Slay: "She was, like, $13,000 that weekend. And I was like, I didn't make that much. I was so mad."
  (05:38)

4. Strategies for Effective Merch Sales (12:00 - 20:00)

Big Jay and Dusty discuss effective strategies for selling merch, emphasizing the importance of creating relatable and wearable designs. They compare their approaches, with Dusty opting for simple, logo-centric designs and Big Jay experimenting with various slogans.

• Big Jay Oakerson: "I have a shirt that says we're having a good time and that sells the most."
  (15:40)

• Dusty Slay: "Legion of Skanks is like a good tattooable shirt, hat kind of logo."
  (15:19)

They also touch upon the dynamics of having someone else manage merch sales, making it easier for comedians to focus on performing.

5. Touring Tales and On-the-Road Antics (20:00 - 30:00)

Robert and Dusty reminisce about their touring days, sharing hilarious and sometimes uncomfortable experiences. Robert narrates a memorable incident involving snoring during a trip with Bobby Slayton, leading to chaos and laughter.

• Dusty Slay: "I was lying down, drooling on his shoulder, and he's like, 'The AC is wet on your shirt.'"
  (25:02)

They also discuss the financial aspects of touring, particularly the low earnings from gigs and the pressures of maintaining performance quality as featured acts.

6. Insights into the Comedy Industry (30:00 - 35:00)

The hosts and Dusty delve into the broader challenges within the comedy industry, including the decline of traditional featuring gigs in favor of online comedy performances. They debate the sustainability of live touring as a primary income source for comedians.

• Dusty Slay: "It's like, you know, featuring is only like a hundred dollars a show."
  (35:07)

• Robert Kelly: "Dane Cook, he had those five merch counters just full with soup."
  (14:24)

7. Personal Stories and Comedic Chemistry (35:00 - 39:00)

The camaraderie between the hosts and Dusty shines through as they share personal stories, including Robert's early days in comedy, interactions with big names like Kevin Hart, and the dynamics of living and touring together. Their chemistry brings warmth and authenticity to the discussion.

• Robert Kelly: "I took you on the road when you were way over your head."
  (23:30)

• Dusty Slay: "We went up like Canada almost Erie or some shit."
  (24:38)

8. Promotion and Upcoming Shows (39:00 - 39:52)

As the episode wraps up, Dusty promotes his tour dates and upcoming performances, encouraging listeners to attend his shows.

• Dusty Slay: "Dusty's new special Wet Heat is streaming right now on Netflix... visit dustyslay.com."
  (37:32)

Robert also hints at future content and personal projects, maintaining the show's forward-looking energy.

Notable Quotes

• Robert Kelly: "I always thought I was doing a disservice to a middler."
  (05:00)

• Dusty Slay: "Nobody was trying anything anyway, but... message taken."
  (07:09)

• Big Jay Oakerson: "I have a shirt that says we're having a good time and that sells the most."
  (15:40)

• Dusty Slay: "Legion of Skanks is like a good tattooable shirt, hat kind of logo."
  (15:19)

Conclusion

This episode of The Bonfire offers a candid and humorous exploration of the behind-the-scenes realities of the comedy world. Through engaging storytelling and sharp wit, Big Jay Oakerson, Robert Kelly, and Dusty Slay provide valuable insights into the challenges of merch sales, the dynamics of touring, and the evolving landscape of stand-up comedy. Whether you're a comedy enthusiast or an aspiring comedian, this episode delivers both laughs and meaningful reflections on the art of making people laugh.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to The Bonfire on SiriusXM’s Faction Talk channel, Channel 103, available Monday through Thursday at 5 PM Eastern/2 PM Pacific.
• Listen Ad-Free and access episodes a week early by subscribing to SiriusXM Podcasts+ here.
• Follow Dusty Slay and check out his tour dates at dustyslay.com.