"THIS WAS MY FIRST COMEDY SHOW!"

More and more, I am meeting people after my shows who just experienced their first live comedy show. Obviously, if they approach me, its likely been a good experience. We all know if it was a bad experience, they will go to Yelp.  More often than not, they say they regret not doing this sooner and more often. Everyone needs to laugh, especially now.  The day after the Highland Park tragedy, I did a show just 15 miles away to a packed audience of people, wanting and needed joy. Laughter is medicine and has scientifically and physiologically been proven to be.

It's always so exhilarating to discuss comedy with people who respect the craft, especially after they just went to their first live show. With the growth of comedy online, my last few "first show" encounters were from people who saw stand up online and wanted to go see a live show. I am sure now even they agree that TikTok and Instagram reels can only provide a portion of the experience.

Just last week, someone told me I was their first comedy show. Thankfully it was a good show so I felt like I fulfilled my duty to provide laughter.  And I do feel like I have a responsibility at comedy shows since more often than not, the people in the audience don’t know who I am and took a chance to see me, based on my (limited) biography or clips they saw online. These people have spent money on babysitters, Lyfts and then sometimes a two drink minimum. The least I can do is be funny. #formerlawyer #bettercallpaul #standup #careerchange #laughteristhebestmedicine