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From Hooters to the Stage: Embracing Comedy and Self-Expression
Transitioning from waitress to stand-up comedian involved finding self-worth and embracing humor. The experience in a Hooters setting—initially focused on beauty and a bikini pageant—evolved into a realization of the power of voice and representation. Presenting the pageant highlighted the thrill of comedy, managing crowd heckling while maintaining authority, which sparked an interest in stand-up. The impulse to perform against social instincts of belonging suggests an attraction to the adrenaline and complexity of shame, while also identifying as an outsider growing up. This outsider status cultivated a unique perspective, allowing the comedian to operate as a mirror for audiences, reflecting their realities while providing humor and insights into shared experiences.