David Jolly's 5-Year Comedy and Sobriety Experiment!
Mick Unplugged
Deep Dive
Why did David Jolly decide to quit drinking, and how did it impact his comedy career?
David Jolly quit drinking because it was hindering his ability to fully focus on his comedy career. He realized that to achieve his goals, he needed to eliminate distractions, including alcohol. Sobriety allowed him to stay mentally sharp and avoid potential pitfalls, such as public outbursts or unprofessional behavior, which could harm his brand. He stopped drinking on July 5th after a particularly heavy night on the 4th of July, and it has been almost 18 months since he last drank.
What is David Jolly's approach to building a brand in the comedy industry?
David Jolly emphasizes the importance of self-promotion, originality, and consistency in building a brand. He believes that in today's world, everyone is a brand, and cameras are everywhere, so maintaining professionalism and authenticity is crucial. He also stresses the need to stay focused on long-term goals and avoid distractions, such as relationships or vices, that could derail progress. His viral catchphrase and unique comedic style have helped him stand out in a competitive industry.
How did David Jolly get his start in comedy?
David Jolly got his start in comedy after attending a local show in Orlando with his friend D-Rock. Despite initially being told he couldn't perform, he prepared some material and was eventually allowed on stage. His performance was well-received, and he was advised to pursue comedy full-time. From there, he dedicated himself to the craft, attending open mics and honing his skills, even when audiences were small or unresponsive.
What advice does David Jolly give to aspiring comedians?
David Jolly advises aspiring comedians to fully commit to their craft and avoid half-hearted efforts. He stresses the importance of consistency, attending open mics regularly, and being willing to bomb on stage as part of the learning process. He also encourages comedians to focus on their unique voice and not wait for opportunities to come to them, but rather to create their own opportunities through hard work and persistence.
How does David Jolly handle controversial or sensitive topics in his comedy?
David Jolly approaches controversial topics with a unique perspective, aiming to make people laugh without causing offense. He believes that humor can bridge divides and that most people are not easily offended by jokes about their own identities. For example, he has told trans jokes that were well-received by trans audience members, demonstrating that his material is rooted in kindness and understanding rather than malice.
What role did the 'Kill Tony' podcast play in David Jolly's career?
The 'Kill Tony' podcast was a significant turning point in David Jolly's career. After being invited to perform on the show, he gained widespread recognition and opportunities to perform at larger venues. The exposure from 'Kill Tony' helped him build a national audience and solidify his reputation as a standout comedian. He credits the show for opening doors and allowing him to connect with other successful comedians in the industry.
What is David Jolly's writing process for creating comedy material?
David Jolly's writing process varies; sometimes he starts with a premise, setup, and punchline, while other times he riffs on stage and builds material from there. He also writes out full jokes and then cuts out about 80% of the content to refine the humor. He emphasizes that every comedian has their own style and that being around experienced comedians has helped him improve his craft and develop a more structured approach to writing.
How does David Jolly maintain his sobriety in an industry where alcohol is prevalent?
David Jolly maintains his sobriety by staying focused on his goals and avoiding situations where alcohol is a temptation. He mentally distances himself from the drinking culture by keeping his mind occupied with his career and next steps. He also recognizes that drinking could jeopardize his professional reputation and opportunities, which motivates him to stay sober.
What is David Jolly's perspective on competition in the comedy industry?
David Jolly does not view other comedians as competition. Instead, he focuses on improving himself and sees fellow comedians as teammates who can help each other grow. He believes that competing with others is counterproductive and that the real challenge is to outdo his own previous performances. This mindset has allowed him to stay motivated and avoid the negativity that can arise in competitive environments.
What inspired David Jolly's viral catchphrase and video style?
David Jolly's viral catchphrase and video style were inspired by his desire to stand out in the comedy industry without following traditional paths like moving to New York or LA. He created a unique format where he reacts to outrageous situations with the phrase 'I know you fucking lying,' which resonated with audiences and went viral. His innovative approach allowed him to bypass gatekeepers and let his work speak for itself.
- Importance of full commitment to a comedic career
- No Plan B mentality
- Daily dedication to craft
- Overcoming challenges and staying persistent
Shownotes Transcript