From Aurora to New York: How Dan Soder Built a Career in Comedy

From Aurora to New York: How Dan Soder Built a Career in Comedy
Image: Intellect (generated)

In short: Born in Connecticut and raised in Colorado, Dan Soder transformed from a college student performing stand-up into a fixture of the New York comedy scene. Known for his sharp impressions and radio presence, he has navigated the worlds of television, podcasts, and professional wrestling with a distinct, self-deprecating comedic style.

Daniel Edward-Richard Soder was born on June 24, 1983, in Hartford, Connecticut. His formative years were spent in Aurora, Colorado, where he attended Smoky Hill High School and developed a close friendship with future NFL coach Mike McDaniel. His early life was marked by significant personal loss; he experienced the death of his father during his high school years, followed by the passing of his sister in a car accident two years later.

Soder began his journey into comedy while attending the University of Arizona. He completed his undergraduate studies in 2005, earning credentials in both political science and journalism. Shortly after finishing his degree, he relocated to New York City to pursue a professional career in stand-up. His rise in the industry was steady, eventually leading to roles on television programs like Inside Amy Schumer and the Showtime drama Billions, where he played the character Mafee.

Beyond his acting work, Soder became a prominent voice in radio and podcasting. He co-hosted the SiriusXM show The Bonfire alongside Big Jay Oakerson from 2015 until his departure in 2023. His interests are eclectic, ranging from a lifelong passion for professional wrestling—notably his impression of Randy Savage—to his current ventures in podcasting, including his self-titled show and The Regz. In his personal life, he is engaged to sports personality Katie Nolan, with whom he shares a dog.

Soder’s career trajectory reflects the modern evolution of the comedian, moving fluidly between traditional media and digital platforms. Whether through his hour-long specials on Comedy Central or his recurring appearances on various podcasts, he has maintained a consistent presence in the entertainment landscape. His work continues to evolve, as seen in his 2026 role in the series Tires, demonstrating his ability to adapt to new formats while retaining the comedic voice he cultivated during his early years in New York.

Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.

Sources

To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/places-dan-soder.

How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

Finding something worth knowing…