Fixable: How to self-promote without shame (w/ Chris Duffy)
Oct 18, 2023
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Chris Duffy, standup comedian and host of the TED podcast How to Be a Better Human, joins Anne and Frances to discuss the art and mindset of self-promotion. They explore the challenges of using social media authentically and the difference between self-promotion on social media versus being on stage. They also admire the careers of comedian Karen Chi and Josh Gondelman and discuss how to use platforms as opportunities for connection and communication.
Self-promotion on social media can feel uncomfortable, but reframing it as a way to showcase diverse interests and talents can help find a balance.
Reframing social media as a space for play and experimentation can bring joy and freedom to its use.
Deep dives
Overcoming Avoidance and Reframing Tasks
In this podcast episode, Francis Fry, a Harvard Business Professor, and Morris, a CEO and bestselling author, discuss the issue of avoidance in the workplace. Francis acknowledges her tendency to avoid certain tasks and the significant time and mental energy that avoidance consumes. They explore the importance of reframing tasks and setting clear goals to overcome avoidance. The conversation emphasizes the need for coaching and support in identifying the underlying reasons for avoidance and finding strategies to overcome it.
Using Social Media Authentically
In this episode of Fixable, Chris Duffy, a comedian, writer, and podcast host, seeks advice on using social media authentically while growing his career. Chris shares his struggle with feeling like social media is bad for his brain and the world, while also acknowledging the pressure to have a bigger following for career success. Francis and Morris guide Chris in reframing his perspective and suggest focusing on creating short-form experiences for his audience. They encourage him to find a balance between self-promotion and providing valuable content, and to explore using social media to showcase his diverse interests and talents.
Creating Playful and Joyful Social Media Content
Francis and Anne, the hosts of Fixable, reflect on their own experiences with social media and share their desire to bring a sense of joy and freedom to their use of the platform. They discuss the importance of reframing social media as a space for play and experimentation. They encourage embracing unique and multifaceted identities on social media, rather than feeling limited to one specific box or persona. The hosts emphasize the value of creating content that sparks joy and connects with others, while also staying true to one's own mission and values.
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Seeking Support
Chris, Francis, and Anne briefly touch on the common struggles with self-doubt and seeking external validation on social media. They encourage each other to reframe their mindset and focus on the impact they have on others rather than seeking constant approval. Additionally, they highlight the importance of finding support systems and engaging in conversations that provide guidance and fresh perspectives. The hosts offer their assistance to listeners who may have workplace challenges, emphasizing the power of meaningful conversations in finding solutions.
As a standup comedian and the host of the TED podcast How to Be a Better Human, Chris Duffy knows how to be engaging in front of a microphone. However, he feels awkward about posting on social media yet worries that not posting is costing him opportunities and a bigger audience. It's a problem that Anne and Frances have faced too. Together, they talk about the art and mindset of self-promotion and the ways YOU can rethink your online presence so it feels more aligned with what you stand for.
Transcripts for Fixable are available at go.ted.com/fixablescripts.