Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out
163. Josh Johnson: Reinventing the Modern Comedy Special
Mar 24, 2025
Josh Johnson, a comedian and writer for The Daily Show, shares his insights on building a fan base through YouTube and the paradox of success in comedy. He reflects on advice from Trevor Noah and the importance of personal authenticity in crafting jokes. Their humorous discussion includes quirky stories about animal noises in Mike's walls and a funny elevator encounter involving an unexpected drug offer. Josh emphasizes community connections and the transformative power of humor, all while championing philanthropy with Feeding America.
52:00
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Quick takeaways
- Josh Johnson defines modern success in comedy through directly engaging with audiences via digital platforms like YouTube, shifting away from traditional industry routes.
- He emphasizes that artistic growth stems from vulnerability and continuous practice, prioritizing personal fulfillment over external validation in the creative process.
Deep dives
The Power of Prolific Storytelling
Josh Johnson exemplifies how prolific storytelling can shape a comedian's career. By continuously writing and performing, Johnson found a unique way to release his work directly to his audience, cutting out intermediaries in the process. His approach of filming every set and sharing it online allows him to connect with fans and fine-tune his material on the go. This method not only showcases his growth as a performer but also engages viewers by giving them a glimpse into his creative journey.
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