I perform stand up comedy.

When I first started performing stand-up comedy, I think many people, including myself, often thought it was just about telling jokes and getting laughs. And yes, that's a huge part of it! There’s an incredible thrill in hearing an audience erupt, feeling that energy bounce back when you’re on stage, mic in hand. But over time, I've realized there's so much more to what a comedian truly intends to do every time they step under those lights, whether it's at a big club like Funny Bone or a smaller, more intimate venue. For me, one of the biggest intentions is to forge a genuine connection. It's not just about me talking at people; it's about creating a shared experience. When I’m up there, looking out at the audience, I'm hoping to find common ground. Maybe it's a shared frustration, a universal awkward moment, or a perspective they hadn't considered. That moment when someone in the crowd nods vigorously or refers to a bit later, that’s pure magic. It makes all the vulnerability worth it. Another deep intention is to embrace vulnerability, both my own and, in a way, the audience's. My jokes often come from my own life experiences – the embarrassing, the confusing, the downright silly. By sharing these unfiltered moments, I aim to show that it's okay to not be perfect, it's okay to stumble, and it's definitely okay to laugh at ourselves. It’s a form of catharsis, not just for me, but hopefully for everyone listening. When I'm performing, even something as simple as wearing my favorite NASA t-shirt, it's about being authentically me on that stage, whether I'm standing confidently against a brick wall backdrop or sometimes performing seated for a different vibe. Comedians are also, in a sense, observers and commentators on life. We intend to hold up a distorted, funny mirror to society, relationships, and everyday absurdities. We're constantly looking for the humor in the mundane, the ridiculous in the serious. It’s about making people think implicitly, even as they're roaring with laughter. Sometimes, a joke can highlight an injustice or a silly social convention far more effectively than a serious lecture. The goal isn't just to entertain but to master the art form itself, pushing boundaries and finding new ways to make people laugh and, perhaps, see the world a little differently. It's a journey, and every performance is a step forward in understanding the true, multifaceted intent of a comedian.