Podcast Summary: Tosh Show Episode – "My Key Grip - Rick Uva"

Episode Information:

• Title: My Key Grip - Rick Uva
• Host: Daniel Tosh
• Guest: Rick Uva, Key Grip
• Release Date: June 17, 2025

Introduction to Rick Uva

In this episode of the Tosh Show, host Daniel Tosh welcomes Rick Uva, the key grip and a long-time crew member associated with Daniel’s projects, including Comedy Central’s Tosh.0. The conversation delves into Rick’s extensive experience in the film and television industry, his personal life, and his enduring friendship with Daniel.

Early Life and Surfing Background

Rick shares his upbringing in Southern California, highlighting his early passion for surfing which began at age 11.

• Daniel Tosh [16:00]: "You were a surfer. When did you start surfing?"
• Rick Uva [16:03]: "I was 11. First board was a Greg Noll 811."

Rick reminisces about his competitive surfing days, mentioning significant competitions like the Huntington Open and his stint in Australia surfing at legendary spots like Honolulua Bay.

• Rick Uva [18:22]: "I was competitive. I did one year. I surfed pretty well. I was out of high school, probably 17, maybe 18, and I got to the Huntington Open. It was WSA back then."

Career as Key Grip

Rick elaborates on his role as a key grip, explaining his responsibilities on set and the evolution of the film industry's technology over the decades.

• Daniel Tosh [20:30]: "Now explain the difference between grip, best boy grip and key grip."
• Rick Uva [21:05]: "The key grip's responsibility is listen to the director... He makes sure you surround yourself with the best guys."

He also discusses the transition from traditional film methods to modern digital technologies, noting significant changes in lighting and camera equipment.

• Rick Uva [20:15]: "When I started, we were burning arcs... shooting film. Now it's all LED and the cameras are little chips."

Experiences on Various Shows

Rick recounts his experiences working on numerous Comedy Central shows, including Heat, GI Jane, and multiple iterations of Tosh.0. He highlights memorable moments, such as the intense shootout scene in Heat and the seamless operation behind Tosh.0.

• Rick Uva [23:55]: "We spent a month on the weekend, Saturdays and Sundays with the shootout scene. It was Michael Mann. We weren't using real bullets, but real blanks."
• Rick Uva [25:04]: "Tosh.0 was probably the easiest gig I've ever had. It was a well-oiled machine."

Rick also touches upon the camaraderie and challenges faced during production, including interactions with notable personalities like Sam Elliott.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Beyond his professional life, Rick shares insights into his personal life, including his marriage, parenting, and unique living arrangements.

• Rick Uva [30:27]: "I call it my floating condo. 30-foot sailboat, Catalina."
• Daniel Tosh [43:05]: "My dad's good. He's... I think he's 80. I should ask him."

Rick discusses living on a boat, balancing work and personal life, and his dedication to his family. He humorously recounts gift exchanges with Daniel, showcasing their lighthearted friendship.

• Rick Uva [35:27]: "Here, I brought some dots if you want to put it on your board."
• Daniel Tosh [41:02]: "Don't want it."

Insights and Advice

Towards the end of the episode, Rick offers valuable advice for aspiring film technicians and those looking to enter the industry.

• Rick Uva [45:38]: "If you ever get on set and you're a production assistant, run hard and always go up to the key grip because you can approach those guys... and then after the end of the day, they ask you what you're doing next week."

He emphasizes the importance of networking, hard work, and seizing opportunities to advance one's career in the competitive world of film and television production.

Notable Quotes

• Rick Uva [07:00]: "We were just hanging out. He was just funny. I was like, this guy is hysterical."
• Daniel Tosh [14:03]: "I think it's gonna. This is gonna be great."
• Rick Uva [22:11]: "Best Boy, Susan."
• Rick Uva [33:16]: "I tried to make sure your house was clean, Daniel."

Conclusion

In "My Key Grip - Rick Uva," Daniel Tosh engages in a candid and entertaining conversation with Rick Uva, shedding light on the pivotal role of a key grip in television production. The episode offers listeners a blend of professional insights, personal anecdotes, and humorous exchanges, all while celebrating the enduring friendship between Daniel and Rick. Whether you're interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of TV production or simply enjoy Daniel's comedic style, this episode provides a comprehensive and engaging listening experience.