JT Habersaat, Volume 5

As an Austin resident for 20 years, JT has witnessed a transformation from a tight-knit, vibrant, pre-pandemic community to a larger, more fame-driven scene. He sees the divide between “old Austin” and the current landscape. Of the city's former comedic camaraderie, he notes that the sense of unity he once cherished has become fragmented, replaced in part by a hustle for recognition and viral success. For him, comedy should be about genuine love for the craft, not just chasing fame or online followers. As he's done since his earliest punk rock days he's always leaned into his independence. In a rare move for someone of JT's talent and touring regimen, he's never hired a manager or agent to represent him. He's always preferred organic growth and development over flashy (and short-lived) fame.

JT shares the arduous but rewarding process of creating his book, Doing Time: Comedians Talk Stand-Up—a moment I've been anticipating for nearly two years. The book compiles conversations with over 80 comics in a unique, nearly chapter-less narrative that explores comedy careers without being prescriptive. Through carefully selected questions and arranged answers, the book flows like a conversation among friends—JT's deliberate intent. He includes comics across a broad spectrum of career success to give readers an authentic taste of life as a working comedian. When it came to publishing, JT resisted industry pressure to dilute his vision, ultimately finding a publisher in Jaw Bone Press who would respect his narrative structure—even if it meant sacrificing wider commercial appeal for authenticity. The story of how he landed his publishing deal reminds us that holding on to your principles is always the best move.

Altercation Comedy Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with JT's standard heavy involvement in all things festival - from personally selecting the festival lineup to the making of homemade badges. With the large Austin comedy scene, it was inevitable that this year's Altercation Festival would conflict with another comedy festival. Perhaps instead of that weird logo rebrand, Austin should have leaned into rebranding as Austin - the Live Festival Capital of the World. Despite the challenges, he's excited to celebrate the 10th year of the festival with fest favorites from the top of the bill (including the annual tradition of a Secret Headliner) to the bottom. Some of the names you can expect include Neil Hamburger, Ben Roy, Mo Alexander, Jay Chanoine, and so many more. The can't miss Holy Brunch hosted by the McCuewan's also returns along with closing night music performances. All of these great performances can be found with long-time festival partner, Kick Butt Coffee. Pro Tip: the venue is small considering the high caliber of talent, so grab your badge and tickets now before the shows sell out.