Neal Brennan interviews stand-up comedian and podcast host Iliza Shlesinger about vulnerability, the impact of likability and authenticity in success, dealing with rejection in the comedy industry, veganism and sustainable fashion, and the struggles of being a female comedian in a male-dominated industry.
Rejection in the entertainment industry can be hurtful, but it often leads to better opportunities in the long run.
Establishing power structures and conforming to certain ideals can hinder true inclusivity.
Facing rejection in auditions and projects can be emotionally challenging, but maintaining a healthy mindset is crucial.
Stand-up comedy provides solace and immediate gratification in a competitive industry, despite its inherent challenges.
Deep dives
The Burden of Rejection
The speaker reflects on the constant rejection they face in their career as an actor and comedian, feeling left out and hurt when they don't get opportunities. They discuss the personal nature of rejection and how it's hard not to take it personally. They also express their frustration with the performative aspect of certain movements and the pressure to conform to certain ideals. However, they also acknowledge the importance of self-preservation and not subjecting oneself to constant rejection by avoiding certain shows or movies they didn't get. Ultimately, they come to the understanding that rejection often leads to the right opportunities in the long run.
Questioning Fiefdoms
The speaker contemplates the concept of fiefdoms and the desire for people to establish their own kingdoms or power structures. They observe the inherent competition and exclusivity that can arise in these movements and the difficulty of finding true inclusivity. They express their own reluctance towards participating in such systems and prefer the freedom of working independently. They also acknowledge the hypocrisy that can exist within movements and the inability to question certain aspects without being labeled anti-feminist or anti-progress. Ultimately, they strive to maintain their own authenticity and avoid succumbing to the pressures of conforming to specific ideals.
The Impact of Personal Rejection
The speaker reflects on their personal experiences of rejection, particularly in their acting career. They discuss the emotional toll of auditions and not getting roles, as well as the struggle to detach from the personal attachment to projects. They talk about the difficulty of watching shows or movies they auditioned for but didn't get, as it can bring up feelings of hurt and exclusion. They also acknowledge the importance of recognizing that rejection often leads to better things and maintaining a healthy mindset in the face of repeated rejection.
Embracing Stand-Up Comedy
The speaker reflects on their journey as a stand-up comedian and the solace they find in the freedom of doing live comedy. They discuss their early aspirations of being on shows like SNL and In Living Color, but ultimately finding their love for stand-up and the immediate gratification it provides. Despite facing rejection in other areas, they appreciate the ability to connect with audiences through their stand-up and acknowledge the timeless appeal of stand-up as an art form.
Loneliness in the Comedy World
The speaker reflects on the loneliness experienced in the comedy world, particularly during the early stages of a comedian's career. They discuss the competitiveness, isolation, and lack of support that can make it challenging for comedians, especially women, to find a sense of belonging. Despite the loneliness, the speaker emphasizes the importance of genuine connections and supporting others in the industry.
Environmental Awareness and Frustrations
The speaker expresses frustration with the state of consumerism, particularly regarding the environmental impact of everyday products. They discuss the difficulty of finding sustainable and eco-friendly options in a market flooded with cheap, low-quality goods and misleading marketing tactics. The speaker also touches on the challenges of living a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, while acknowledging the social and financial obstacles that can make sustainable choices inaccessible for many people.
The Loneliness and Frustrations of Being an Artist
The speaker reflects on the loneliness and frustrations inherent in pursuing a career as an artist, specifically in stand-up comedy. They describe the isolation after a performance, the lack of shared experiences with others in the industry, and the constant struggle for recognition and opportunities. Despite the challenges, the speaker emphasizes the importance of persevering and finding joy in the process, as well as the personal growth and fulfillment that can come from pursuing artistic endeavors.
Neal Brennan interviews Iliza Shlesinger (Iliza's Locals, Ask Iliza Anything, Good On Paper + more) about the things that make her feel lonely, isolated, and like something's wrong - and how she is persevering despite these blocks.
