We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Joe Kelley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Joe, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My optimism is rooted in quantum physics and a line from the 1994 masterpiece “Angels in the Outfield” when JP says, “It could happen…”
I’ve always enjoyed quantum physics because it deals with probabilities instead of absolutes. So instead of things being certain, even if something is 99.999999999999999% unlikely to happen, it could happen.
If you were to ask anyone, I grew up with what the probability of me doing stand-up comedy was, they would say 0%. And I might have agreed. But I always knew I could do it, and maybe more importantly, wanted to.
Sometimes it is tough to maintain an optimistic vision when you seem to be the only one who sees it, but again, going back to quantum physics, maybe people aren’t able to see your vision because they aren’t using the same tools that you are to see it.
To me, at the end of the day, the only way to solidify that 0% chance of not achieving your dreams or success is to give up.
So really, if Angels in the Outfield and quantum physics have taught me anything, it is, indeed, it could happen.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a comedian and voiceover artist. I guess I’m a very ear-focused person in that sense. One day I’d like to add a more visual aspect to my career and be a cartoon.
My comedy has been described as “blue” by people who are cowards, so it’s safe to say I like to have a little fun when I’m doing stand-up.
I released an album called “Ladies & Leftovers” which you can find on all major streaming platforms as well as YouTube. I also have a podcast called “Joe Kelley’s Psychedelic Experience.”
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Being a minimalist was key when I first started doing stand-up. I realized early on that I wasn’t going to make any money starting out and to keep my overhead low, I bought a van and moved into it. I was able to travel all over the country and figure out how to do stand-up. So, if you want to start doing stand-up, get a van.
I committed to doing stand-up early on. You see a lot of people just dipping their toes in here and there, but really you have to just dive in and learn to swim. No one learns to swim from dipping their toes in, so no matter what you do in life, commit and dive in. Especially with stand-up, no one really cares if you do it. People might think you’re funny and enjoy having you around but at the end of the day, you have to show up for yourself So, dive in, commit, and don’t make excuses.
I think my high cheekbones have played a huge role in my success, honestly. They haven’t made me funnier, but when I walk on stage, people go, “Woah! Look at those cheekbones…” so it gains their attention right from the get-go. Even if they don’t like my jokes, they are still mesmerized. Unfortunately, I can’t offer any pointers for great cheekbones.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I like to get a hard workout in. Whether it’s a run, swimming, or kettlebells, I find that exhausting the body eases the mind.
Contact Info:
- Website: joekelleycomedy.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/joekelleycomedy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoeKelley13
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/joekelleycomedy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@joekelleycomedy
- Other: Album on Spotify – just search “Ladies & Leftovers”
Image Credits
Lindsey Morgan Lola Scott
