Comedian Nimesh Patel shares his experience of being kicked off stage at Columbia University for a controversial joke. They discuss finding their comedic voice and writing every day. They also talk about bombing at a college comedy show and feeling let down by white people due to racism. The podcast includes sponsor ads and delves into Nimesh Patel's special and YouTube success.
Indian immigrants in America faced significant challenges and struggles throughout history, including stereotypes and obstacles in various industries like motel ownership.
Overcoming testicular cancer influenced Nimesh Patel's comedy, highlighting the power of finding humor in difficult situations and the importance of resilience.
Deep dives
The Story of the First Patel in America
The comedian explores the origins of the Patel community in America, imagining who the first Patel must have been and how they ended up in the country. From the early 1900s to the landmark Supreme Court case of 1923, Nimesh Patel delves into the history of Indian immigrants in America and the struggles they faced. He humorously touches on stereotypes, motel ownership, and the experiences of Indian Americans throughout history.
The Impact of Cancer on Comedy
Nimesh Patel shares a personal story about overcoming testicular cancer and how it influenced his comedy. He discusses the importance of finding humor in difficult situations and how it shaped his perspective on life and work. With a focus on resilience and perseverance, he highlights the power of laughter in the face of adversity.
Finding Identity Through Comedy
The comedian reflects on his journey of self-discovery through stand-up comedy and how it has helped him navigate his identity as an Indian American. He talks about the challenges of embracing his cultural heritage while also breaking stereotypes and finding his own unique voice in the comedy world.
The Pursuit of Success and Acceptance
Nimesh Patel discusses the pressure to succeed and the constant need for validation in the comedy industry. He shares personal anecdotes about his experiences as a comedian, including working on the Chris Rock Oscars gig and the importance of finding one's own voice in a highly competitive field.
Comedian Nimesh Patel joins Mike this week for a joke-filled conversation about how to find your comedic voice, how to turn your saddest stories into standup, and whether or not Buddhism and comedy can peacefully co-exist. Plus, Nimesh goes deep on the infamous time he was yanked off stage at Columbia University for making what he didn’t think was a very controversial joke.