

#745
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.
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




















Mentioned in 27 episodes
Mentioned by 

as an example of someone who focused on their craft.


Cal Newport

10,154 snips
#722: Cal Newport — How to Embrace Slow Productivity, Build a Deep Life, Achieve Mastery, and Defend Your Time
Mentioned by 

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


Cal Newport

1,403 snips
Cal Newport: The Secrets of Slow Productivity
Mentioned by 

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


Cal Newport

1,203 snips
Ep. 317: The 10-Year Rule
Mentioned by 

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


Cal Newport

996 snips
Slow Productivity: Cal Newport On How To Escape Burnout, Do Your Best Work & Achieve More By Doing Less
Mentioned by 

as a fantastic autobiography.


Chamath Palihapitiya

448 snips
E141: State of Series A's, VC dry powder, IPO window opens + more with Bill Gurley & Brad Gerstner
Mentioned by 

as the great book written by Steve Martin.


Marc Andreessen

440 snips
Marc Andreessen & Jack Altman: Venture Capital, AI, & Media
Mentioned by 

and recommended as a good book.


Cal Newport

141 snips
Ep. 171: Is Slow Productivity the Solution to Burnout?
Mentioned by 

as a book he enjoys rereading.


Cal Newport

141 snips
Ep. 193: How do I read more?
Mentioned by 

as a source of career advice.


Cal Newport

135 snips
Deep Work, Digital Minimalism and Becoming So Good They Can’t Ignore You with Cal Newport
Mentioned by 

as a book revealing the secrets of comedy.


Jimmy Carr

132 snips
#2045 - Jimmy Carr
Mentioned by 

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


Adam Savage

118 snips
#370: Adam Savage on Great Tools, Great Projects, and Great Lessons
Mentioned by 

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


Cal Newport

105 snips
Ep. 173: What is Deep Work?
Mentioned by 

, recommending his autobiography.


Tim Ferriss

104 snips
#557: Q&A with Tim — Tools for Better Sleep, Musings on Parenting, the Different Roles of Fear, the Delight of Deepening Friendships, the Purpose of College, How to Boost Your Mood, HRV Training, and More
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

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

Michael Batnick

84 snips
Did Trump Blink? (EP. 405)
Mentioned by 

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


Cal Newport

75 snips
Ep. 200: Decoding the Deep Life
Mentioned by 

as a book that is both inspiring and funny.


Jason Calacanis

69 snips
The power of super communication with Charles Duhigg | E1938
Mentioned by 

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


Cal Newport

26 snips
Ep. 107: How Do I Stay Motivated on Long-Term Projects?
Recommended by ![undefined]()

for its inspiring story of perseverance.

Richie Serna

22 snips
Richie Serna, CEO of Finix - The Key to Great Products, Fundraising Stories, Building a Payments Powerhouse
Recommended by 

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


Chris Kocek

12 snips
#268: You Get an Insight! And YOU Get an Insight! with Chris Kocek
Quoted by 

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


Jordan Raynor

Jordan Raynor (Host of the Mere Christians podcast)