Join Marlon Wayans, a multi-talented comedian and actor with a 30-year career in entertainment, as he opens up about his journey of healing through laughter. He candidly discusses how losing his parents shaped his perspective on life and art, and shares an emotional moment from the stage. Marlon emphasizes the power of storytelling in comedy, the importance of continual growth, and his ambitious goals in stand-up. His reflections on family, personal struggles, and spiritual growth will inspire you to embrace resilience and seek your own path to greatness.
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Life-Changing Loss
Marlon Wayans' life was magical for 48 years until his parents died.
This loss profoundly impacted him, leading him to explore spiritual growth through comedy.
insights INSIGHT
Storytelling over Jokes
Marlon Wayans believes that true impact comes from storytelling, not just jokes.
He aims to convey messages of love and healing to change lives.
insights INSIGHT
Studying Story Structure
Marlon Wayans studies movies not for enjoyment but to analyze story structure and character arcs.
He finds inspiration in the works of Chris Vogler and Robert McKee.
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This book details a twelve-stage, myth-inspired method for storytelling that has significantly influenced cinematic narrative. Originally based on a memo Vogler wrote for Walt Disney Animation executives regarding 'The Lion King', the book expands on Joseph Campbell's 'The Hero with a Thousand Faces' and provides a practical guide for writers using examples from myths, fairy tales, and classic movies. It includes stages such as 'The Ordinary World', 'The Call to Adventure', 'Meeting with the Mentor', and 'The Resurrection', among others, and is widely acclaimed for its impact on screenwriting worldwide.
The hero with a thousand faces
Joseph Campbell
In this book, Joseph Campbell explores his theory of the 'monomyth', a universal pattern found in the mythological narratives of various cultures. He details the stages of the 'hero's journey', which include departure from the ordinary world, initiation into a supernatural world, and return with a boon. Campbell draws on a wide range of mythological sources and integrates insights from psychology, particularly from Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud, to illustrate the common elements of heroic myths across different cultures.
The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho
Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" is an allegorical novel that follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on a journey to fulfill his Personal Legend. The story blends elements of fantasy and realism, exploring themes of self-discovery, following one's dreams, and listening to one's intuition. Along his journey, Santiago encounters various characters and challenges that teach him valuable lessons about life and the importance of perseverance. The book's simple yet profound message has resonated with readers worldwide, inspiring them to pursue their passions and embrace the journey. The Alchemist is a timeless tale of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's dreams.
Story
Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting
Robert McKee
In *Story*, Robert McKee provides a detailed and integrated explanation of the craft of writing for the screen. The book expands on the concepts he teaches in his highly regarded seminars, offering insights into the relationship between structure and character, and the underlying principles that make a story compelling. McKee draws from a wide range of sources, including Aristotle and classic films, to offer practical advice on storytelling that is applicable to screenwriters, novelists, playwrights, and non-fiction writers.
SUMMIT OF GREATNESS IS UNDER 2 WEEKS AWAY! Have you gotten your tickets yet? Get them before they sell out at lewishowes.com/tickets
Get ready for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with the multi-talented Marlon Wayans! In this episode, we dive deep into Marlon's journey as a comedian, actor, and producer, exploring how he's evolved both personally and professionally over his 30-year career. Marlon opens up about his spiritual growth, the impact of losing his parents, and his mission to bring healing through laughter. From his ambitious goals in stand-up to his thoughts on success and failure, Marlon's insights will leave you motivated to embrace your own path to greatness. Don't miss this powerful episode that combines humor, wisdom, and raw emotion!
In this episode you will learn
How Marlon is incorporating spiritual growth and healing into his comedy specials
The importance of continual learning and growth in pursuing your goals
Why Marlon believes in doing a new stand-up special every year, contrary to industry norms
How losing his parents has shaped Marlon's perspective on life and his art
The value of building the right team and treating yourself as a business
Marlon's approach to overcoming fear and embracing new challenges
The power of trusting in your journey and viewing greatness as a ongoing process
The School of Greatness 
