A Quick Dose of Inspo

5 Podcasts That Influenced My Comedy Writing This Year

In transparency: I’m writing this “newsletter” ahead of time because I’m predicting that my brain will be busy while I’m in the KC Fringe.

One of the best compliments I ever got about my writing was from my first youth pastor who told me he always imagined I would be writing on SNL one day. 

It’s been a really interesting time learning about and writing comedy the last couple of years after being “just a poet” for so long. 

I’ve been writing my entire life and always wanted to make people feel good through my work. Even as a poet, I could never fully commit to the “trauma competition” of poetry slam. 

Even still, I have habits as a poet that don’t always help me as a comedian that I’m constantly navigating.

Here are 5 podcasts I’ve listened to that have influenced my writing process or taught me something about writing comedy in the last few months:

1. Good One: Alex Edelman’s Christmas Story

This episode was helpful because it’s actually unpacking the how and why behind Alex Edelman performing different versions of the exact same story based on the context. 

2. Good One: Jacqueline Novak’s Authenticity

What I liked about Jacqueline Novak’s special is that it’s hilarious, but she admits to having been a poet before and how it influences her work in the special. Hearing about her writing process made me feel seen.

3. Working It Out: Maddie Wiener: How to Find Comedy in a Panic Attack

I just really enjoyed the way Mike and Maddie explored their bits in the “working it out” part of this episode. Also, just helpful to hear other comedians talk about dealing with anxiety in their material.

4. Creative Pep Talk: How to Work With Your Brain Instead of Against It

This was a great episode for reflecting on how to adapt your creative process to your actual life and it was really refreshing on a day I just needed to hear it. Bonus: tools for getting stuff done/started.

5. Re:Thinking: The art of vulnerability and connection with comedian Mae Martin

This episode covers the difference between improv and stand-up, as well as some good points about how we connect with people in general.

I have 5 shows in the KC Fringe! One is TONIGHT at 10:30!! Then there are 3 more after that.