In this episode of The Choose Your S.O.U.L. Show takes you behind the mic with Teresa, a comedian whose path into stand-up is as raw as it is inspiring. She opens up about how humor became both a survival tool and a craft, and why authenticity isn’t optional—it’s the heartbeat of comedy and life.

The conversation dives into the hustle most audiences never see: the late nights, endless practice, and the balancing act of building relationships while chasing laughs. Teresa also gets candid about the shifting landscape of comedy post-COVID, the weight of cancel culture, and why showing up online is as critical as showing up on stage.

What stands out is her perspective on laughter as medicine and how pain, when mined with honesty, can turn into material that connects deeply with people. The episode closes with her vision for the future and a reminder that comedy, at its best, is about connection—between performer, audience, and community.

One of the biggest themes from this episode is how laughter acts like medicine, not only for the audience but for the comedian too. Teresa shows how authenticity is at the center of both comedy and personal growth—people connect most when you’re real. She also talks about taking painful experiences and flipping them into material that feels relatable, which is part of what makes comedy so healing.

We get into how success in this field comes down to consistency and practice, the kind of grind that doesn’t always get seen but makes all the difference. Teresa highlights how the comedy world itself is both competitive and supportive, and how relationships within it can be tricky to navigate.

The conversation also touches on the way COVID changed live performances, the growing importance of social media as a platform for comedians, and the tightrope of cancel culture that keeps comics mindful of their material. Through it all, Teresa reminds us that comedy is a long-term journey, one that demands dedication, resilience, and a real love for the craft.

Connect with Teresa:

• Instagram: @teresadegaetano
• Podcast: @twostandupgalspod
• Upcoming Shows & Other Events

We hope we can inspire you on this journey with us 🫱🏼‍🫲🏽

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