Joy, a Podcast. Hosted by Craig Ferguson Hasan Minhaj
Jun 17, 2025
Join Hasan Minhaj, an actor and comedian known for his sharp political commentary on shows like Patriot Act, as he shares insights on parenting, identity, and comedy. He humorously reflects on the struggles of blending traditional values with modern American culture while highlighting the challenges of early jobs and stand-up. Hasan also discusses the surreal experience of performing at the White House Correspondents' Dinner and the absurdities of military operations, all while advocating for deeper, authentic connections through humor.
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Play to Camera One
- Play to the camera when performing in unreceptive rooms like the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
- Accept that you might bomb with the live audience; your real audience is the viewers at home.
Hasan's Comedy Beginning
- Hasan Minhaj began comedy inspired by Chris Rock's "Never Scared" special while working regular jobs like grocery bagging.
- He transitioned to stand-up by going to open mics and testing out his initial simple jokes about life as a young person with landlines.
Craig's Early Bombing Experience
- Craig Ferguson recounts bombing spectacularly at a punk rock festival in London with knees shaking and being booed off stage.
- Despite this, he recalls thinking immediately to do it again, embracing failure as part of the craft.