SHOW NOTES
What if the worries that keep you up at night could become the stories that make thousands of people laugh?
In this episode of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda sits down with Nashville stand up comedian Brian Bates to talk about his new comedy special, Worried, and the courageous decision that completely changed the direction of his life.
After spending nearly 20 years in corporate America, Brian left his day job at age 43 to pursue stand up comedy full time. His story is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to reinvent yourself, take a risk or answer the calling that will not leave you alone.
Named after Brian’s infamous “resting worried face,” Worried turns a lifetime of overthinking, awkward encounters and people pleasing into hilarious and relatable storytelling. From dating apps, older fatherhood and sleep apnea to potty training disasters, expensive tree removal and wondering whether the family dog needs therapy, Brian proves that there truly is no problem too small to spiral over.
Brian also shares what he has learned from nearly two decades in comedy, how he transforms anxiety into material and what it was like working with his friend Nate Bargatze, who executive produced the special. Worried was filmed at The Lab at Zanies in Nashville and is now available on the Nateland Entertainment YouTube channel.
As an original host and producer of The Nateland Podcast throughout its six year run, Brian helped create the chemistry and connection that made the show wildly popular. He now cohosts The Public Figures Podcast alongside fellow comedians Aaron Weber and Dusty Slay.
Brian also discusses expanding into acting, including his appearance in Nate Bargatze’s new film, The Breadwinner, and continuing to bring his signature anxious optimism to audiences across the country.
In this episode, you will learn:
• Why Brian left corporate America at 43 to pursue comedy
• How to move forward even when fear and self doubt are present
• Why everyday anxiety can become a powerful source of connection
• How Brian turns uncomfortable family moments into relatable comedy
• What becoming a father later in life has taught him
• How his friendship and creative partnership with Nate Bargatze developed
• What six years on The Nateland Podcast taught him about building an audience
• Why it is never too late to reinvent yourself
• How laughter can help us feel less alone in our worries
Watch Brian Bates’ stand up special Worried on the Nateland Entertainment YouTube channel.
Listen to The Public Figures Podcast with Brian Bates, Aaron Weber and Dusty Slay.
Look for Brian in Nate Bargatze’s film The Breadwinner and catch him performing in cities across the country.
- Transition from corporate career to comedy
- The importance of responsible writing in comedy
- Using everyday frustrations as material
- Overcoming imposter syndrome and age-related doubts
- The role of discipline and structure in comedy
- The significance of persistence and timing in career change
- The impact of life experiences on comedic storytelling
- The process of honing material through repetition
- The value of responsible content creation in comedy
- Encouragement for late bloomers to pursue passions
- Good writing is essential regardless of genre, and practice improves material.
- Responsibility and discipline are crucial in building a comedy career.
- Every frustrating or awkward moment can be transformed into a story.
- It's never too late to start a new career or pursue a passion.
- Persistence and timing are key to success in any field.
- Life experiences enrich comedic storytelling and authenticity.
- Repetition and honing are vital for effective comedy routines.
- Embracing work and responsibility can lead to unexpected success.
- Age is just a number; it's about timing and readiness.
- Courage involves moving forward even when worried or uncertain.
- "My face tells people I'm worried all the time."
- "I think God wanted me to wait till I was older."
- "It's never too late to take the next step."
No comments:
Post a Comment