Creative Breakthrough

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**Creative Breakthrough**

**Winner of 2021 International Women’s Podcast Awards for Best Business Podcast** Jumpstart your Creative Career with informal mentorship from successful creative entrepreneurs, across TV, film, music, literature, and beyond to turn your creative passion projects into full-time careers. Hear from experts, get inspired, and drive your creative career forward! Past guests include Jeff Friday, James Lopez, Maz Jobrani, Rizwan Manji, Stefon Bristol, Sarah Thawer, and Maaza Mengiste! Shereen Kassam aka FunnyBrownGirl will also share stories and strategies that she used to step outside her 9-5 to become an internationally touring stand-up comedian, radio personality, actress, and now podcaster. Join our community of creatives and let’s lift each other up! Subscribe to receive alerts when a new episode is available. For inspiration Instagram – @funnybrowngirl Shownotes – www.funnybrowngirl.com/podcast

Latest Episodes:

Told to Apologize for Being Muslim Nov 05, 2020

Show notes

Ep 59: Told to Apologize for Being Muslim

Last week, the Islam Channel featured me in a piece about being Muslim and losing my radio gig.

I'm Shereen Kassam – comedian, podcaster, speaker, actress, ex-radio host, and entrepreneur.

I started this podcast for two key reasons

As a woman of color in the entertainment industry, I felt I didn't have any mentors to turn to for advice and mentorship. I started this podcast to provide informal mentorship and strategies to win to other creatives, such as myself, who need a mentor

I wanted a voice after I had to leave the radio.

Now why did I leave the radio?

Well – The Islam Channel actually did a piece on this last week. I am going to play the audio for those of you haven't seen it….if you want the video you can check it out on my Instagram page – funnybrowngirl or Islam Channel's IG which is IslamChannelTV. Shout out to Ravit Anand for a wonderful piece. Or on Youtube!

It has over 23,000 views across social media so please keep sharing it!

That night and the following days had a profound impact on me. After that night, I get nervous every time I have a comedy show at a new club or a new area, because I don't know who is going to get upset that I'm Muslim.

What I learned from this situation? Sometime you will get opportunities that sound amazing, and it will take everything you have to walk away. But you have to believe something better is around the corner.

I learned that God's plan involves me being surrounded by people who support me, who lift me up, and who fight for me. That night at the show, and the days following, I realized the universe had a bigger calling for me. It reminds me of a quote that I love - if your path is difficult it is because your purpose is bigger than you thought.

And that's why I stated this podcast. I wanted to do more with my voice and with my talent. I wanted to reach more people and make a difference.

The last question I ask during all my interview is = what advice do you have for creatives on their journey?

My advice –

We live in a weird time right now. Everyone is under attack across the globe. No matter your gender, your sexuality, your race or your religion. Look at us here in the USA – we are a divided nation. I've been dealing with this since I was a child – the hateful comments, the racial slurs, the death threats. But you know what hurts me the most. It's not when some ignorant person comes at me with ugly words, it's when people, many times people who call themselves my friends, stand by and do nothing. They just stand there. That's what hurts.

I urge you all be kind to each other. If you see something happening that's wrong, speak out. Say something. That's the only way we can heal as a world and learn to love each other.

I want to meet you all and answer any questions you have for me. his Sunday, November 3pm Eastern Time (New York time) I'll be on Instagram live with some wings and answering questions. Feel free to send them in advance to hi@funnybrowngirl or any social media platform @funnybrowngirl. Oh and follow me on Tik Tok @funnybrowngirl.

Next week we will continue to discuss side hustles and how to make money from your creative passion.

With that, go flex your creative muscle and keep winning.

Who am I?

I'm Shereen Kassam, the host of Creative Breakthrough and internationally touring speaker and comedian. If you are looking for a speaker to talk on topics including creativity, branding, or work life balance, get in touch! I am also open to being guest on your podcast, TV show, or other medium.

Contact me:

Email: hi @ funnybrowngirl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/funnybrowngirl

Twitter: twitter.com/funnybrowngirl

Instagram: Instagram.com/funnybrowngirl

TikTok: tiktok.com/@funnybrowngirl

How to Start a Successful Side Hustle in 3 Steps Oct 22, 2020

Show notes

How to Start a Successful Side Hustle in 3 Steps

What is a side hustle - any activity outside of your day job that helps you make more money

Different types of side hustles - drive uber, doordash, taskrabbit, instacart...but I want to talk about side hustles that are not part-time jobs...I want to talk to you about not only a way to earn income from your creative endeavors but also as a path to being your own boss

This can be based on your creative passion or something you are good at

Do the best with the time you have but it's important to find an idea that fits your lifestyle otherwise you will not give it the attention it deserves

That's why i always feel the best side hustles are tied to your creativity and passion

So for me, my side hustles align with my passions and my purpose and enjoy it long-term - performing stand up comedy, doing a podcast, selling CBD, helping female entrepreneurs in Africa...

Not limited to selling a skill or talent, a digital product, a physical product, or a service

There are three key structures to having a successful side hustle

One - an idea - spend the most time, but don't get analysis paralysis

Two - monetizing the idea

Is your idea is financially viable

Now not everyone is looking to make money from their hobby, but today I'm not talking about your hobbies, I'm talking about your side hustles - which is taking your hobbies and making money from them

No, you will not be rich right away, but overtime the goal is for your side hustle to be more than a side job. If you feel like it's not going to get there, then it's time to pivot.

Three - a way of getting people to know of such idea (market the idea)

How will people find you your services?

Walk through podcast, CBD, comedy (didn't start as a side hustle - know my worth now, asked to do speaking engagement, MC events), digital course (time but passive income)

Let's talk about ideating your side hustle:

Musician - you can start a podcast, teach an online course, tutor kids

Writer - you can start a blog (jasmine darznik), join the gig economy like upwork and fiverr, freelance

Chef - start a youtube channel, write an ebook of recipes

Artist - create your own designs and start a print on demand business

Dancer - start a youtube channel, teach classes right now esp with covid (bollywood dancing)

If you are a creative listening right now, and are stuck and I didn't mention your craft - message me and I'll make sure to highlight it on the next episode hi@funnybrowngirl.com or DM me at funnybrowngirl

Second, how will you monetize your side hustle?

Figure out how much your cost is to create your product/service

Understand how much you want to make to set your price
What's your strategy - how many items do you need to make, clients do you need if you're coaching, customers you need to sign up for your online course, viewers if you start a youtube channel
How long will it take you to find these people to pay for your services
Do not undervalue your services - no covid discount, friends or family discount, nothing
Be realistic with your goals

Patreon account

And lastly, how will you market your idea and find customers/clients

Figure out how you will spread the word

If you made handmade crafts / digital products - website, etsy or shopify

For 14 free days to try Shopify, use this link: www.funnybrowngirl.com/shopify

Social media
Friend and family
newsletter/email list

Youtube channel
Your own platform - podcast, radio, blog, etc

If you are stuck, message me on Instagram @funnybrowngirl or email me at hi @ funnybrowngirl.com Once you have your idea, also let me know! I love hearing your wins!

Until then flex your creative muscle and keep winning!

References:

Try Shopify: www.funnybrowngirl.com/shopify

Who am I?

Contact me:

Email: hi @ funnybrowngirl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/funnybrowngirl

Twitter: twitter.com/funnybrowngirl

Instagram: Instagram.com/funnybrowngirl

Bob Sumner: How to Be a Star Oct 07, 2020

Show notes

Welcome to the Creative Breakthrough

I am your host Shereen Kassam

This week, we continue our conversation with the Founder of Def Comedy Jam – Bob Sumner

Before we jump in to part 2 of our conversation with Bob –

This season, I'm going to spend a lot of time talking about monetizing your creative passion and side hustles.

With many cities starting to open up performance spaces such as bars, clubs, and theater spaces I want to share some personal thoughts.

Yes, people are struggling financially. Yes, unemployment is high. Yes, people are scaling back on their spending.

But – people are still paying Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ their monthly subscription. People are still eating out. And people are still buying things they don't need on Amazon.

So you do not need to start charging less than you are worth.

Yes, we are all excited to get back out there and start performing. Yes, there may be less people in the seats due to social distancing. Yes, the promotor may tell you he won't be making as much money from each show. But no, that doesn't mean you are worth any less.

I've been getting tons of audition requests for acting. Pre-Covid these requests were for $1500 to $2000 for a one year buy out. Now? These requests are for $400 and for use for life. That's cheap! And as much as I want to act again, and perform, I cannot allow myself to sell my image for life for $400 and neither should you.

The companies paying for these commercials stand to gain thousands of dollars from these ads, so why shouldn't you also benefit?

As your cities start opening up and people start reaching out to you to perform, please do not perform for free if the producers of the shows/commercials stand to make money.

Because if we all go out and perform for free, we set a precedent of how much we value ourselves and of our talents.

And if you don't get paid, how are you going to survive on your art?

This week I continue chatting with Bob Sumner –

On the previous episode, Bob shared his vision for Def Comedy Jam, what he looks for in talent, and his advice to creatives.

Bob is best known as the co-creator of HBO's Russell Simmon's Def Comedy Jam, a recognized force in the world of comedy and the man behind most comedy legends. With over 25 years of experience, Bob has discovered many of the top gifted comedians that have graced the stages and big screens around the world, including Kevin Hart, Bill Bellamy, Mike Epps, Dave Chapelle, Sheryl Underwood, Chris Tucker, Cedric The Entertainer, and Bernie Mac. One day, he will add me to this list!

Bob is the executive partner in LaffMobb Enterprises which has produced specials that have aired on Showtime, DirectTV and OnDemand. He is also the executive producer of LaffMobb's We Got Next and LaffMobb's LaffTracks.

So what are we waiting for, let's get started.

Key Questions answered by Bob Sumner:

Which is better LA or NYC for creatives
What Bob wants his legacy to be

Bob Sumner Discusses:

Bob's advice for comedians and creatives
How to be successful as a creative
Next on Bob's journey

Key Takeaways from Bob Sumner

Know your end goal or your legacy
Keep creating, even if there is nowhere to perform
Speak your goals in to existence

Contact Bob:

Facebook: .com/groups/130660473567

Twitter: twitter.com/bobsumner24

Instagram: Instagram.com/bob.sumner

Who am I?

Contact me:

Email: hi @ funnybrowngirl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/funnybrowngirl

Twitter: twitter.com/funnybrowngirl

Instagram: Instagram.com/funnybrowngirl

Bob Sumner: Creating Def Comedy Jam and Advice to Excel in Your Creative Journey Sep 24, 2020

Show notes

Announcements

We are trending in Nigeria! That makes 16 countries around the world. I am so grateful for you all for tuning in week after week!

Check out my new website redesign at www.funnybrowngirl.com

While you're there, take the podcast quiz to find which episode is for you!

Also sign up for my email list for bi-weekly resources and opportunities

Lastly, check out our Facebook Group – Creative Breakthrough Community

This season, we have amazing line-up of guests! I'll be chatting with:

Actor on Tyler Perry's BET hit show Ruthless and Perfect Pickup Jaime Callica

Chef Saqib Keval whose restaurant Masala y Maiz has been named One of the World's Greatest Places by Time Magazine

Nelu Handa who is a writer and actor on the hit Netflix show Working Moms

Host of MSNBC Ali Velshi

And this week - Co-founder of Def Comedy Jam Bob Sumner

Who is Bob Sumner

Bob is best known as the co-creator of HBO's Russell Simmon's Def Comedy Jam, a recognized force in the world of comedy and the man behind most comedy legends. With never 25 years of experience, Bob has discovered many of the top gifted comedians that have graced the stages and big screens around the world, including Kevin Hart, Bill Bellamy, Mike Epps, Dave Chapelle, Sheryl Underwood, Chris Tucker, Cedric The Entertainer, and Bernie Mac. One day, he will add me to this list!

We recorded this in April 2020 and streamed it live which is why you may notice some technological glitches and long pauses, especially if you are watching this on YouTube. We talked for almost 2 hours, so there will be a part two to this episode.

I had the pleasure of meeting Bob at the American Black Film Festival as part of the Comedy Wings Comedy Competition and I can't thank him enough for what he's done for my comedy career. I'm excited to share his story and his creative advice with all of you.

Key Questions answered by Bob Sumner:

How Bob's creative journey began
Why Bob started Def Comedy Jam
How Bob know if you have it or don't have it as a comedian
How Bob stay's positive and keeps hustling

Bob Sumner Discusses:

His career journey
Bob's advice for comedians and creatives
Bob's observations of post-COVID comedy
How to be successful as a creative
Next on Bob's journey

Key Takeaways from Bob Sumner

Your purpose doesn't have to be your passion
Surround yourself with people who inspire you
Don't be the guy just trying to get the check
COVID is just a restart - be ready
Always be creating

Contact Bob:

Facebook: .com/groups/130660473567

Twitter: twitter.com/bobsumner24

Instagram: Instagram.com/bob.sumner

Who am I?

Contact me:

Email: hi @ funnybrowngirl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/funnybrowngirl

Twitter: twitter.com/funnybrowngirl

Instagram: Instagram.com/funnybrowngirl

Episode 55: Welcome to Season 3! Future guests, life updates, and more! Sep 10, 2020

Show notes

Welcome back to Season 3 of the Creative Breakthrough Podcast!

After a three month, hiatus I am back!

When I took a break from this podcast in June 2020, COVID was in full swing, I had been furloughed from my full-time job, all the comedy clubs were closed, and I was mentally and emotionally exhausted.

I'm happy to say, I'm back at work, comedy clubs are re-opening (though I am not yet taking any chances), and hyped to be back on this podcast!

How did I spend the last three months?

I grew my CBD business – My Pain Center -by learning about email marketing, digital marketing, and more! And am transferring those learnings to grow my other store – Womandela.com

E-commerce sites are booming right now! If you are interested in starting an e-commerce store, I suggest checking out Shopify

I took a bunches of courses on Coursera.org such as The Science of Well-Being and Transmedia Storytelling

I also thought a comedy class to high school students across the world, including Kenya, Congo, Russia, Syria, Qatar, UK, India, Pakistan, Canada, and USA. I heavily relied on Judy Carter's The Comedy Bible to create my curriculum

And I had the chance to mentor seven undergrads at Brown University.

You can say I kept busy!

I also worked on this podcast!

This season, we have amazing line-up of guests!

I'll be chatting with:

Co-founder of Def Comedy Jam Bob Sumner
Actor on Tyler Perry's BET hit show Ruthless and Perfect Pickup Jaime Callica
Chef Saqib Keval whose restaurant Masala y Maiz has been named One of the World's Greatest Places by Time Magazine
Nelu Handa who is a writer and actor on the hit Netflix show Working Moms
Host of MSNBC Ali Velshi

Who am I?

Contact me:

Email: hi @ funnybrowngirl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/funnybrowngirl

Twitter: twitter.com/funnybrowngirl

Instagram: Instagram.com/funnybrowngirl

How to Start a Successful Side Hustle; Hiatus until September 10th Jun 04, 2020

Show notes

Host Shereen Kassam, a serial side hustler, shares her tips and advice on starting a successful side hustle and ideas to get you started. She also shares her thoughts about the recent murder of George Floyd, the Black Lives Matter movement, and how as a creative you can get involved. Also, we are taking a summer break to focus on self-care and wellness. We will be back with new episodes on September 10th!

Director Tina Mabry: How to Positively Handle Rejection May 21, 2020

Show notes

This week, we chat:

How to handle rejection
How not to let rejection turn in to resentment
And the 4 ways to be successful in your creative journey

Tina Mabry, our guest from Episode 2 of Creative Breakthrough, shared her thoughts on dealing with rejection, her viewpoint on fear, and her advice to creatives on their journey.

Tina Mabry is a writer, producer, and director, whose directing credits include Queen Sugar, Proven Innocent, Queen of the South, Insecure, Dear White People, Power, and Pose.

Key Questions answered by Tina Mabry:

How to stay motivated
How to deal with rejection
How to stay optimistic

Tina Mabry Discusses:

Why she chose to pursue an MFA
Moving to LA
Her thoughts on Fear
Advice for creatives

Key Takeaways from Tina Mabry:

Be OK with rejection
Fear can hold you back or it can drive you
Success and opportunities come when they're supposed to
It's the one yes you get, that's what's important
Don't stop pushing forward with your goals, your time will come

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Stitcher and Google Play

Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): https://funnybrowngirl.libsyn.com/rss

Announcements

If you're looking for a community of supportive creative entrepreneurs to elevate your journey to the next level, join me here: https://funnybrowngirl.com/facebook

Subscribe to my newsletter of creative resources, including opportunities and fellowships at https://funnybrowngirl.com/subscribe

Social Media Info

Connect Online:

Shereen Kassam – www.funnybrowngirl.com

Twitter:

Tina Mabry - @morgansmark

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

Instagram

Tina Mabry - @tinamabry

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

#CreativeBreakthrough

#CreativeBreakthroughPodcast

#CreativeBT

Writer/Director Felicia Pride: How to Create a Positive Mindset and Apply to Writing Competitions May 07, 2020

Show notes

This week I discuss my third week of furlough from Walt Disney World, my own creative breakthrough, and how I'm staying sane.

Felicia Pride, from episode 33, released her first short film this week - Tender. In this episode, she talks about applying to TV Writing competitions such as NBC on the Verge, the importance of informal mentors, self-care, and patience.

Felicia wrote and directed Tender.

Here's the official description: After an unexpected one night stand, two women at very different stages of their lives, share an even more intimate morning after

Link to Felicia Pride's Tender: https://www.vanndigital.com/watch-felicia-prides-tender-short-film/

Who is Felicia Pride?

Two weeks ago, the Hollywood Reporter's feature No More "We Can't Find Any Black Female Writers" profiled Black woman screenwriters -- 62 to be exact -- to literally prove to Hollywood that there is a great pool of Black woman writers creating exceptional content and supporting (not competing) each other in the industry. And together, we smiled on the marking of another dope step toward making the case for our visibility, representation and overall a salute to our seat at the table. As we shine a light on the women writers of color who cleverly innovate the stories we watch on screen, I'd like to introduce to you another talented Black woman writer/producer on a personal mission to elevate our stories -- for us and by us: Felicia Pride.

Felicia Pride has been winning 2018. In just one year, the cultural journalist turned author turned screenwriter achieved a career trifecta: Charles D. King's MACRO (Fences, Mudbound) picked up her first feature film (Really Love, 2019), she sold a television pilot and in October, she a writer on Ava Duvernay's Queen Sugar which airs on OWN. And earlier this month, Pride launched "Honey Chile," a consumer facing digital brand of her production company, Felix & Annie, aimed at Gen X women -- and though she's got over 15+ years in the writing game, it's clear that Felicia's rising star is next up to shine.

Popularly known among creatives as the founder and voice of The Create Daily, a resource for underrepresented creators, Felicia Pride is a thought-leader among creative content creators. From VIBE to NYC's book publishing scene to her short film The End Again, Felicia has proven to be one to watch. Tapped by Sean "Diddy" Combs' communications team for her writing, she also worked with the mogul on the hit FOX show, THE FOUR and has become an in-demand speaker at events nationwide, including SXSW, TEDx, Film Independent Forum and AFI Docs.

After a break from the writers life spent running her marketing consultancy focused on expanding audiences for impactful media projects, Felicia returned to her first love rejuvenated and with a fresh approach to storytelling, earning her a highly coveted spot in Film Independent's Screenwriting Lab (2016) followed by NBC's Writers on the Verge program (2017). She chronicles her journey from a creative rut to creative zone in a chapter series (and course!) she penned titled The Creative Comeback.

Felicia Pride Discusses:

Taking a risk
Networking
Self-Care

Key Takeaways from Felicia Pride:

Take risks in your writing
Take care of yourself
Be patient
Match your mindset with your work
Find a mentor

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Stitcher and Google Play

Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): https://funnybrowngirl.libsyn.com/rss

Announcements

If you're looking for a community of supportive creative entrepreneurs to elevate your journey to the next level, join me here: https://funnybrowngirl.com/facebook

Subscribe to my newsletter of creative resources, including opportunities and fellowships at https://funnybrowngirl.com/subscribe

Social Media Info

Connect Online:

Felicia Pride – www.feliciapride.com

Shereen Kassam – www.funnybrowngirl.com

Twitter:

Felicia Pride - @feliciapride

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

Instagram

Felicia Pride - @feliciapride

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

#CreativeBreakthrough

#CreativeBreakthroughPodcast

#CreativeBT

How to Deal with Being Laid Off Due to COVID-19 Apr 23, 2020

Show notes

This week, host Shereen Kassam, chats about being laid off from Disney due to COVID-19 and why now is the perfect time to start or continue pursuing your creative passion. Shereen also chat the importance of maintaining a schedule and not allowing yourself to be BORED. Other topics discussed: how to make this the best time of your life, how to stay sane, and how to balance all the emotions you may be feeling.

Shereen shares free resources for creatives also available on the Facebook group.

This week's guest: Tissa Hami,

Who is Tissa Hami?

Activist. Idealist. Smartass. In fall 2002, just a year after 9/11, Tissa Hami dared to do something that no one in America had ever done -- step onstage veiled and tell jokes. At a time when Muslim-Americans were advised to keep a low profile, she chose to stand up.

Tissa's groundbreaking humor quickly caught the attention of audiences, bookers, and the media. She earned a reputation for making people think as well as laugh.

Due to increased demand for her voice and perspective, Tissa branched out into speaking engagements, classroom workshops, and writing. She has traveled to 25 states, bringing her show to diverse audiences. From prominent universities like Harvard and Yale, to small towns where she's been told that she's "the first Muslim they've ever seen," Tissa has connected with audiences across the country.

Tissa grew up in a traditional Iranian family in a predominantly white suburb of Boston. The daughter of a pediatric dentist and a software engineer, she earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ivy League universities. Her parents were "thrilled" that she wanted to pursue a career in comedy.

Tissa has been featured in media around the world including the PBS documentary "Stand Up," ABC's "The View," NPR, BBC, and the Washington Post. The San Francisco Chronicle named her one of the Top 11 female comedians in the country.

Tissa Hami recently opened her own boutique consulting firm focused on diversity, equality, and inclusion. She works with corporate clients on creative ideas to advance D&I in their organizations, including training programs that feature interactive theater, stand-up comedy, and storytelling. She regularly speaks and performs at D&I conferences nationwide. This is a great story of how Tissa was able to pivot her time in unemployment to discover her creative passion!

Key Questions answered by Tissa Hami:

How did your creative journey begin?
Why Tissa left a well-paying job on Wall Street to pursue stand-up comedy

Tissa Hami Discusses:

Dealing with unemployment and a recession
How she made the jump in to comedy full-time
Challenges to being a full-time creative

Key Takeaways from Tissa Hami:

Your creative life could surprise you
Don't be afraid to deviate from a standard career
Don't be scared to try
It's a life experience even if it doesn't work out
If you love it, do it. Don't give up.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Stitcher and Google Play

Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): https://funnybrowngirl.libsyn.com/rss

Announcements

If you're looking for a community of supportive creative entrepreneurs to elevate your journey to the next level, join me here: https://funnybrowngirl.com/facebook

Subscribe to my newsletter of creative resources, including opportunities and fellowships at https://funnybrowngirl.com/subscribe

Social Media Info

Connect Online:

Shereen Kassam – www.funnybrowngirl.com

Twitter:

Tissa Hami - @tissahami

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

Instagram

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

Connect on Facebook:

Tissa Hami - @tissacomedy

Shereen Kassam – @funnybrowngirl

Creative Breakthrough Community

#CreativeBreakthrough

#CreativeBreakthroughPodcast

#CreativeBT

Comedian Damon Williams: How to Adapt and Adjust to Changing Times (COVID-19) Apr 09, 2020

Show notes

Damon Williams is an internationally touring comedian who has been seen on Showtime at the Apollo, BET's Comic View, and The Tom Joyner Sky Show. We chat about the emotional and financial impacts of COVID-19 and Damon's advice to creatives during this unprecedented time. Participate in Damon's #steptothemic competition on Instagram

Shereen Kassam aka Funny Brown Girl shares her thoughts from self-quarantine – everything from how she's surviving without comedy to almost being arrested for stealing.

We talk free resources and opportunities all available on the Facebook group and by subscribing to my email list

Free course on Happiness: The Science of Well-Being

We chat resources if you're feeling depressed or struggling with what's going on –

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA only): 1-800-273-8255
International Suicide Lifeline: org/international-suicide-hotlines.html
Talkspaceis an online and mobile therapy company based in New York City. Talkspace users have access to licensed therapists through the website or mobile app on iOS and Android.

Donate to my Podcast Fund: www.ko-fi.com/funnybrowngirl

Donate $20 or more, and we can schedule a 30 minute Skype call to chat about your creative journey and challenges

This week's guest: Damon Williams from Subway shop owner to internationally touring comedian

Who is Damon Williams?

With 25 years in the industry, Damon Williams is a former Subway sandwich shop owner from Chicago, IL who began his comedy career at All Jokes Aside Comedy club. Damon's previous television appearances include BET's Comic View dating back to 1994, including his own one-hour special. He's been featured on BET LIVE, Comedy Central's Premium Blend, The Tom Joyner Sky Show on TV ONE, and HBO's P Diddy's Bad Boys of Comedy.

The Funny Man from Chicago even hosted several episodes of the legendary Showtime

at the Apollo, following seasoned host & TV star Steve Harvey. In 1999 Damon

performed for over 300,000 fans as the opening act for the highly successful Kings of

Comedy Tour, establishing him as one of the elite comics in the nation.

His popularity has provided him the opportunity to work with some of the biggest stars in the business such as Aretha Franklin, Pattie Labelle, Luther Vandross, Ray Charles, Harry Belafonte, Chris Rock, James Brown, Jamie Foxx, Little Richard, and even President Barack Obama – where he served as host for a campaign brunch.

Damon is keeping Chicago on the map as co-owner of Riddle's Comedy Club where he's providing a stage for new and veteran comedic talent. Damon previously held the "Funny Chair" seat as co-host on the legendary nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show, and is seen consistently on Chicago's #1 Day Talk Show, Windy City Live.

Key Questions answered by Damon Williams:

How he went from entrepreneur to comedian
How being an entrepreneur helped him as a creative
Should I be performing live on social media during this lockdown?
As a creative, what should I be doing during COVID-19 lockdown?
What's the best advice Damon has received?
What is Damon's definition of success
Who inspires Damon?
What is a habit that has helped Damon on his journey
What does Damon want his journey to be

Damon Williams Discusses:

Negotiations and contracts
Creating opportunities for exposure
Chicago vs LA vs NYC
His comedy club in the midst of COVID-19
How Damon is spending his day's in lockdown
What made Damon successful
Advice Damon has for creatives

Key Takeaways from Damon Williams:

Always negotiate first
Create your own opportunities to build exposure
Appreciate the simple things during this time
Use this time to reset
Find ways to adapt
Do what you love and opportunities will find you

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Stitcher and Google Play

Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): https://funnybrowngirl.libsyn.com/rss

Announcements

If you're looking for a community of supportive creative entrepreneurs to elevate your journey to the next level, join me here: https://funnybrowngirl.com/facebook

Subscribe to my newsletter of creative resources, including opportunities and fellowships at https://funnybrowngirl.com/subscribe

Social Media Info

Connect Online:

Damon Williams – www.damonwilliamscomedian.com

Shereen Kassam – www.funnybrowngirl.com

Twitter:

Damon Williams - @damonwilliam

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

Instagram

Damon Williams - @damonwilliamscomedy

Shereen Kassam - @funnybrowngirl

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