Digest

Michaela, a stand-up comic living in Brooklyn, shares her struggles with defining success in her career. She questions the meaning of her work and whether she's truly pursuing her own passions. Robin and producer Steph explore the importance of self-love and finding joy in the process, encouraging Michaela to dream bigger and set attainable goals. They discuss the challenges of navigating a competitive industry and the importance of self-care. Michaela reveals her desire to create a project that she's proud of, similar to Broad City, and Robin and Steph offer support and accountability, setting a deadline for a draft by mid-June. The episode concludes with a powerful message from Judy Gold, a stand-up comedian, actress, and writer, who emphasizes the importance of persistence, taking risks, and never giving up on your dreams.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the podcast, well-adjusting, hosted by Robin Hopkins, and its focus on life stuff, but not in a traditional NPR way. It's more like a casual conversation at a bar, getting into your business sort of way. The episode features Michaela Fagan, a stand-up comic and improv performer, who is seeking guidance on setting career goals. Producer Steph is also present, and the episode includes an expert segment with Judy Gold, a comedian, actress, and writer.

00:01:24

Michaela's Journey in Comedy

This Chapter delves into Michaela's experience in comedy, starting at age 17 in Florida. She shares her early success in the South Florida scene and her transition to New York after college. Michaela expresses her current struggle with defining success and finding happiness in the hustle of her career. She questions the meaning of her work and whether she's truly pursuing her own passions.

00:10:20

Redefining Success

This Chapter focuses on helping Michaela redefine success on her own terms. Robin encourages her to remove money and external validation from the equation and focus on what truly fulfills her. Michaela reveals her early idolization of Lucille Ball and Carol Burnett, but acknowledges that she's not aiming for that level of fame. Robin challenges her to stop limiting her dreams and to embrace the possibility of creating something unique and meaningful.

00:21:27

Accountability and Support

This Chapter explores the importance of accountability and support in achieving goals. Robin and Steph discuss the challenges of finding genuine support within a competitive industry like comedy. Michaela shares her experience with a group of comedy friends in Brooklyn, where competitiveness can hinder genuine support. They emphasize the need for accountability partners who encourage growth and celebrate successes.

00:29:52

Taking Up Space

This Chapter focuses on the importance of taking up space in the world, both physically and emotionally. Robin encourages Michaela to embrace her unique voice and to not shrink herself in the face of challenges. They discuss the importance of experiencing frustration and anger as a source of comedic inspiration. Robin emphasizes that Michaela is already killing it in her career and that she should be proud of her accomplishments.

00:33:24

Setting Attainable Goals

This Chapter focuses on setting attainable goals and creating a plan for action. Robin and Steph encourage Michaela to identify a specific project that she's passionate about and to set a deadline for completion. They offer their support and accountability, setting a deadline of mid-June for a draft of Michaela's project. They emphasize the importance of taking action and not letting fear hold her back.

00:36:00

Expert Advice from Judy Gold

This Chapter features Judy Gold, a stand-up comedian, actress, and writer, as the expert of the day. Judy offers powerful advice on how to stay persistent in a business that can be harsh and unforgiving. She emphasizes the importance of believing in yourself, advocating for your dreams, and taking risks. Judy encourages Michaela to embrace her unique voice and to never give up on her aspirations.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of the challenges Michaela faces in defining success in her comedy career?

  Michaela struggles with the pressure of external validation, comparing herself to others, and feeling like she's not achieving the level of success she envisioned. She also questions the meaning of her work and whether she's truly pursuing her own passions.

• How does Robin encourage Michaela to redefine success on her own terms?

  Robin encourages Michaela to remove money and external validation from the equation and focus on what truly fulfills her. He challenges her to stop limiting her dreams and to embrace the possibility of creating something unique and meaningful.

• What is the importance of accountability and support in achieving goals?

  Accountability partners can provide encouragement, motivation, and structure, helping individuals stay on track and achieve their goals. It's crucial to have people in your life who celebrate your successes and offer constructive feedback.

• Why is taking up space in the world important, both physically and emotionally?

  Taking up space involves embracing your unique voice, expressing your emotions authentically, and not shrinking yourself in the face of challenges. It's about asserting your presence and making your voice heard.

• What are some practical steps Michaela can take to set attainable goals and create a plan for action?

  Michaela can identify a specific project that she's passionate about, set a deadline for completion, and find an accountability partner to support her progress. She can also utilize tools like the Artist's Way or the Great Robin Plan to create structure and motivation.

• What is Judy Gold's advice on staying persistent in a challenging industry like comedy?

  Judy emphasizes the importance of believing in yourself, advocating for your dreams, and taking risks. She encourages Michaela to embrace her unique voice and to never give up on her aspirations.

• What is the significance of Michaela's decision to take a full-time job in tourism?

  Michaela hopes that having a structured schedule and a more stable income will allow her to focus more on her comedy career and pursue bigger goals. She believes that the job will provide her with the time and energy to dedicate to her creative pursuits.

• What is the key takeaway from this episode of well-adjusting?

  The key takeaway is the importance of self-discovery, setting attainable goals, and never giving up on your dreams. It's about finding joy in the process, embracing your unique voice, and taking action to create the life you desire.

• What is the homework assignment that Robin gives to Michaela?

  Robin encourages Michaela to spend time reflecting on her dreams and aspirations, focusing on what she wants rather than what she doesn't want. He suggests that she create a "Great Michaela Plan" that outlines her vision for her life, including her career, relationships, and personal goals.

• What is the significance of Michaela's commitment to writing a draft of her project by mid-June?

  This commitment represents a tangible step towards achieving her goals. It demonstrates her willingness to take action and to hold herself accountable for her creative aspirations. It also signifies the power of support and accountability in achieving dreams.

Show Notes