#818

Mentioned in 27 episodes

Born Standing Up

A Comic's Life

Book • 2008

In 'Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life', Steve Martin provides a detailed and candid account of his journey from his childhood to his rise as a stand-up comedian.

The book delves into his early jobs at Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, his development as a magician and comedian, and the struggles and successes he faced in his career.

Martin also explores his strained relationship with his family, particularly his father, and how he eventually reconnected with them.

The memoir highlights the dedication, discipline, and originality that defined his career and explains why he chose to leave stand-up comedy in 1981 to pursue other creative ventures.

The book includes photographs and offers a unique insight into the life of one of the most iconic comedians of his time.

Mentioned by

Chamath Palihapitiya

Marc Andreessen

Jason Calacanis

Michael Batnick

Mentioned in 27 episodes

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as an example of someone who focused on their craft.

#722: Cal Newport — How to Embrace Slow Productivity, Build a Deep Life, Achieve Mastery, and Defend Your Time

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as a source of inspiration for the term "So Good They Can't Ignore You".

Cal Newport: The Secrets of Slow Productivity

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as an example of someone who took about a decade to achieve significant success in stand-up comedy after quitting his full-time job.

Ep. 317: The 10-Year Rule

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

, referencing his quote about becoming so good that people can't ignore you.

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Mentioned by

Chamath Palihapitiya

as a fantastic autobiography.

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Mentioned by

Marc Andreessen

as the great book written by Steve Martin.

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Mentioned by

Cal Newport

and recommended as a good book.

Ep. 171: Is Slow Productivity the Solution to Burnout?

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as a book he enjoys rereading.

Ep. 193: How do I read more?

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as a source of career advice.

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Mentioned by

Jimmy Carr

as a book revealing the secrets of comedy.

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Mentioned by

Adam Savage

as a book he read and enjoyed, highlighting a quote about using everything you've ever learned.

#370: Adam Savage on Great Tools, Great Projects, and Great Lessons

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as a source of inspiration for his concept of deep work.

Ep. 173: What is Deep Work?

Mentioned by

Tim Ferriss

, recommending his autobiography.

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Mentioned by

Michael Batnick

while discussing Steve Martin's book and his experience of unhappiness despite success.

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Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as a professional memoir focused on the craft of building a career.

Ep. 200: Decoding the Deep Life

Mentioned by

Jason Calacanis

as a book that is both inspiring and funny.

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Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as a source of motivation regarding diligence in pursuing long-term goals.

Ep. 107: How Do I Stay Motivated on Long-Term Projects?

Recommended by

Richie Serna

for its inspiring story of perseverance.

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Recommended by

Chris Kocek

as a wonderful memoir, highlighting Steve Martin’s journey in comedy and his views on opening lines.

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Quoted by

Jordan Raynor

, who was reading it and reflecting on naivete in creation.

Jordan Raynor (Host of the Mere Christians podcast)

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