Alchemy This

713
Improv #92

Award-winning actor and comedian Kevin Pollak has gathered five extraordinarily-talented improvisors to capture lightning in a bottle in the way that only great improv can. In each episode, he presents uniquely bizarre scenarios for he and them to hilariously bring to life.

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Recent Reviews
  • Johannpi
    My favourite podcast
    This was, while it was on, my fave podcast. If you feel similarly, then I recommend listening to the present podcasts of the hosts: Original Understudies (James), You Know What I Would Do (Joey), Stinkers (Caroline). They’re all excellent!
  • Xander, the…
    Annual reunion show?
    Or maybe just come back bi-monthly? Which ever amount of time that bi-monthly actually is….either one.
  • eegrnr
    I miss Joey
    Please come back :(
  • 7596ff
    comfort food
    This podcast just makes me happy. Every guest has something special about them that tickles my brain. It’s a shame that it is going on hiatus, but if something is preventing the best quality improv from being spun, the hiatus makes sense, until that thing is resolved. Hope to hear from y’all again soon.
  • Dr. Felix Hoenikker
    Fantastic Comedy!
    I’ve been listening to this show from the first episode and haven’t looked back since. Almost all of the episodes are absolutely genius and hilarious. I love the chemistry of the improvisers and I love their sense of humor. I replay old episodes while waiting for the next one to come out! Give it a listen!
  • Reesie4221
    If You’re Looking for a Podcast to Make You Laugh….
    ….then look no further than Alchemy This. Seriously. Three years ago I listened to a random episode when I was looking for a new comedy podcast and I’ve been hooked ever since. Every episode is packed with brilliant improv, hilariously weird scenes, and laugh-out-loud-in-public humor. Without exception, every one of the regular and guest Alchemists are extraordinarily talented and bring their own unique flavor to whatever scene they’re in. Every time I think I’ve landed on a favorite Alchemist, it changes in the next episode. They’re all the best and I love them and this podcast and you will too.
  • HappyCustomer9999
    Pure gold
    The alchemists just flow so well with the chaos they create; the guests add to the mix. It’s awesome how the chemistry just keeps getting better! I’ve never been disappointed with an episode and they are the highlight of my week. Okay, James. Are you happy now?
  • JustPlainJess1
    Foolproof way to know if your mate is “the one” - make them listen
    Are you on the fence about your partner? Wondering if they are the one to spend the rest of your life with? Make them listen to Alchemy This. If they won’t listen, dump them! I mean, honestly. If they listen and don’t like it, that is a huge red flag. If they do like it, great! Let them stick around and you can laugh together. If they go find the back-catalog of episodes, they probably won’t speak to you for a week or two. It’s because they’re laughing constantly and then maybe seeking medical treatment for a thrown disc. Use that time to go find a ring. This is a truly excellent podcast, from the outstanding regulars and guests, to the scene management and production. Plus, Kevin and the entire group have been so kind and generous with their time and thoughtfulness particularly since the start of the pandemic, while we try to unscrew ourselves and just try to do regular life-stuff.
  • th0r0din50n
    Wonderful chaos
    This show is just utter and hilarious chaos. The lineup isn’t always the same from episode to episode which keeps things fresh, and the whole rotating cast is pure gold. I love you James Heaney
  • Terencide The Finish Line
    LTLFTC
    Thank you for the most fun show. ❤️
  • Rillhon
    My favorite podcast
    Alchemy This is just fun to listen to. The entire cast and all the guest are consistently hilarious. My vibes have improved and my skin has gotten smoother since I’ve started listening.
  • Spy D
    Nothing else like this exists!!
    I’ve searched all over. Nothing compares!! A sad few don’t get the genius, most everyone else shoots milk from their nose. Pro tip: Don’t drink milk during Alchemy This.
  • laughing to the point of tears
    Linguini likes it!
    Hi, I’m Linguini, I’m a roadrunner from Tucson,and I LOVE this podcast. Been listening ever since I started roosting on this lady’s back porch, ~9 months now. You should listen! I’m wilier than any 10 coyotes and I would not lie to you! P.S. if you don’t believe I’m real, ask the Alchemists. THEY know I’m real and they have pictures to prove it.
  • Squall5042
    INITIATE CHRIS DASH ALVARADO DOT COM VIRUS
    Run:// Inane Praise.exe: “I LOVE this podcast” Run:// Personal Anecdote.exe: “I listen to this all the time while I work.” Run:// Attempt Personal Connection.exe: “I love all the alchemists, especially {CHRIS ALVARADO}” Personal Details Acquired.
  • DaFunzies
    Best improv around and they take suggestions!
    I’ve been listening to these guys for a couple years now and have finally gotten around to writing a review because they are just that good. I never do this. Whether I’m listening in the car or at work, these guys never fail to make me cry-laugh and piss myself. Whether it’s the core group of Kevin Pollack, Joey Greer, Vanessa Ragland, James Heaney, Chris Alvarado, Craig Cackowski or the numerous and wonderful guests including Jackie Durruthy, Gary Anthony Williams, Atul Singh, Mark Gagliardi, Brad Norman just to name a few, these guys ALWAYS DELIVER. They finally took my suggestion and I couldn’t tell you how giddy I was to tune in! This is by far and away my favorite podcast to listen to for a good chuckle and it’s the only podcast I’ve been re-listening to find new gems! The only thing holding me back from voting 6 stars if if they landed Keegan-Michael Key in an episode. That is all I want for Christmas. Keep up the great work Alchemists and I hope we hear Vanessa in some new episodes. We miss you Vaneesh! Perfect 5/7
  • Sknman24
    Hilarious
    That’s all. Joey Greer is the best.
  • Erma75
    Always a good time
    Always a good time
  • j-n-b-4
    Love this show
    I came to this show late after hearing KP mention it during an appearance on Adam Carolla’s show. After whatever the first show I heard was, I went back and binge-listened to all of the back episodes available to me and haven’t missed one since. I really enjoy everyone but I must say I’m missing Vanessa, I hope to hear from her again soon.
  • Sarah and Evan
    Unbelievable
    Just like the intro music, this is pure class. Difficult to listen to average material after enjoying this Jem!!!
  • abitoffkilter
    So good!
    I listen to this podcast whenever I need a laugh or when I can’t sleep (not sure I recommend the latter). So funny every time! I love each of the alchemists. Thanks for the laughs and for helping get me through such a difficult year and a half!!
  • Gabeygoat
    Long form done right
    I always want to refrain on saying who my favorite is, especially as I miss whom ever isn’t on the show, but, James Heaney is the glue. I don’t think he realizes how smart he is, which gives his nervous anxiety ridden characters that much more hilarity
  • Summon 2
    Hold the door! Listen to this now!
    By far the best podcast out there. You email them scene suggestions and they work their magic. You won’t regret it y’all.
  • Samurai Dave
    The Frank Zappa of Improv Comedy
    These cats are crazy. And I love them for it. From the extremely strange situations they create for the mind’s eye, to the camaraderie they share, this group brings a wonderful blend of intelligence, wit, the bizarre, and relatability that a lot of other improv creators struggle to do. I admire them immensely and love the content they create. They make me laugh; and to me, that is one of the greatest gifts that could be given. Thanks, friends. Grateful for you. x
  • Ingenuity2021
    Alchemy This
    Very funny! Could this evolve into a SNL for the west coast?
  • Buttermilk jones
    9 out of 10 dentists agree
    This is hands down the greatest thing to ever hit the internet. I test you to find a funnier group of people. They bring me joy every tuesday and thursday and every day inbetween. Blah Blah Blah, ITunes ITunes, Five Stars. Are you happy now James?
  • mochanique
    James’s # 1 fan
    I love this podcast. I try to not listen to it right away every Tuesday and Thursday, but I am not here for delayed gratification. So much fun and funny here!
  • Fieldhippie
    Show
    It is berry fine. Thank you.
  • Izzy Lion
    Is it weird that I feel like the cast are my friends?
    The majority of my laughter stems from listening to Alchemy This. My Dungeons & Dragons dungeon master recommended the show last year, and I quickly consumed all the available audio. And then I selfishly ignored James’ pleas for reviews... Until today! Btw they can get kind of blue, but I am totally here for it. Keep it weird.
  • MinceMile
    Ecstatic
    I really didn’t expect 2 episodes in a row to absolutely crush it! Wow the episode from 4/15/21 was funny. Thank you for the laughs!
  • DBroomStar
    Bambi here
    I’m new to listening to this podcast and I’m dying! My friend directed me here from her podcast Alchemy That. I’ve started bing hearing.
  • kweengene
    My favorite pod
    It’s so funny! And fun! Love Chris
  • Odd1ty
    Fully loaded
    When it feels like life has taken a surprise bowel movement on your mood, these guys scrub you clean with a firehose of comedy.
  • AdeeDew
    Great funny podcast
    Loom forward to this podcast every Tuesday and Thursday! The cast is always great, I listen to this at work with wireless earbuds, and people think I’m crazy (not seeing the earbuds) when I bust out laughing out of no where, like a mental patient. Keep doing what you’re doing. Sincerely Church is chicken
  • McCoy Cantwell
    Danger - piss your pants funny
    Everyone that listens says they almost kill themselves laughing while driving. Be careful out there
  • Mousebot
    Listen to Alchemy This
    If you like irreverent comedy Alchemy This will most likely be the funniest podcast or possibly the funniest thing you’ve ever heard or seen! All of the main players are hilarious, and so are all of the guest players. I look forward to the 2 days a week that new episodes drop, even though they are the most stressful days at the place I work. EVERYONE SHOULD LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST!
  • Kaelliam
    Great, buuut...
    One of my favorite podcasts, and the only comedy podcast I subscribe to! The improv artists are great, and very creative, highly recommended! I might only note that Kevin tends to fall back on a few lines that tend to derail the scene. The others tend to adjust quickly enough though! For example, he’ll bring the other characters into the office to slowly analyze what they said, reveal that the whole scene was actually just a movie script, ask someone to list their third favorite thing, say “order up!” or call someone a “f#ckface”. I think these all would have been funny the first time, maybe not the fifth. Anyway It’s all just a personal criticism. Love everyone!
  • Lane Hyden
    Alchemical Transmutation
    Once again, Mr. Pollak (yes, you, Mr. Pollak), have twisted the meaning of true alchemy! What’s that? This podcast has NOTHING to do with chemistry! But I digress...I listen to your episodes in no particular order due to my absence from listening to podcasts while creating my own. ANYWAY, I discovered Alchemy This from a friend and haven’t stopped listening. I truly adore improv and have been entertained by it for years; I even tried it in college and failed miserably! You guys have given improv and podcasting a whole new life and soul through entertainment. I’ll donate to the Patreon after I meet my goal for my Pollak Destruction Fund. Thank you guys for everything you do, please keep it going for my own good; my life is on the line.
  • AppleiTunes27
    Used to enjoy
    Gave it a number of chances, as the ensemble is talented. Even recommended it to a friend. In two episodes, Kevin has now shown his political cards, plus his anti-Semitic tendencies. Who needs that crap in a show that’s supposed to be entertaining.
  • Alchemy That
    Hands down the best podcast ever!
    This is such a fun podcast to listen to. The Alchemists always have a fun and wild time, truly a great group of improvisors, and they never fail to make us laugh. Our love for this podcast and the Alchemists brought together a group of strangers, with one thing in common, being fans of Alchemy This, to record our own podcast talking about the episodes of that week. Please give it a listen and if you don't like it then reach out to James Heaney for a large lump sum of money for the loss of time. We love you James, and all the other Alchemists!
  • beaker130
    Orders
    James told me to rate five stars (but seriously I’d probably give this four stars)
  • Amrek_Black
    Best ever
    I have enjoyed this podcast from episode 1. This is a must, especially with what is going on in the world.
  • Parbody
    Wonderful
    The only podcast I listen to these days. It’s honestly been a long time since I’ve laughed at something as hard as I laugh at this podcast. Every performer is such a huge talent I can’t help but be always impressed with how quick and clever they are on the take, even though the recent shows are all done remotely. Keep this podcast going forever for all of our sakes!!
  • Seiple85
    Switched phones just to rate
    I literally dropped my Samsung phone just to buy a new iPhone so I could leave this rating because I love the show that much! Hope that’s worth something. 5 stars!
  • incredulousdoctor
    #savegary
    You guys are great. Gary is even better. So. Good.
  • Lara like Sarah
    Vanessa, come back
    Sorry you guys, but it’s gone downhill since Vanessa’s departure! Too many misses and not enough hits these days. Had to unsubscribe. Many are too cringe-worthy to get through these days…. Would love to re-sub if Vanessa came back and/or if you find your groove again!
  • Douglas McNeal
    Hilarious and creative
    Hilarity ensues from the intro to the outro. Brilliant individuals that feed off of each other to create a blissful comedy improv masterpiece. Everybody plays their part respectfully and have just as much fun as the listener. This show has redefined the podcast listening experience and is the only show that I contribute to on Patreon. Two episodes a week plus “live hang” sessions and interaction on social media, I couldn’t be happier with the product they provide. They are in the service industry of putting smiles on faces, and they succeed with every episode. All love.
  • Boatgames101
    Fantastic!!!
    Love this show! After years of listening to Paul F. Tompkins, its great to see another improv group that performs at the same caliber. All hail dynasty typewriter, next time I'm in LA, and this virus crap is over, its gonna be a point to see a live show. Keep up the great work, best of regards. -Roman C.
  • A Hilarious Listen Always!
    Fantastic!
    This podcast is a great time! Hilarious and Funny! It’s great to see the imagination of everyone in the cast. I mean everyone is amazingly talented. I could do without Joey, but everyone is great. I mean I guess Joey is good. Maybe I am jealous of him. I don’t know. But don’t let my relationship to Joey throw this review off. If you want to laugh out loud while you listen at home, in the car, on the train, on the bus, on the plane - this is the program for you.
  • thenathman
    Too funny
    This show is dangerously funny, you should all be charged with reckless endangerment for all the car crashes you’ve almost caused.
  • robynlnorris
    Alchemy LAUGH!
    Seriously, this podcast is HILARIOUS. Professional improvisers at the top of their game creating complete pieces on the fly. I’m IN! It all somehow all weaves together even though it is also completely BONKERS (in the best way). Five stars to Kevin and the rest of this talented crew. Love this show!
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