The Zen of Stand-Up Comedy:
A 20-Year Veteran’s Perspective
Stand-up comedy is often seen as a battle of wits, a dance between the performer and the audience. It’s an art form that requires quick thinking, sharp timing, and the ability to connect with a room full of strangers. But after 20 years in the game, performing on stages like Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Seth Meyers, I’ve come to realize that stand-up isn’t just about making people laugh. It’s about being fully present in the moment, going with the flow, and embracing the unknown — principles that closely align with the practice of Zen.
Zen, at its core, is about mindfulness and presence. It’s the practice of being fully aware of each moment, accepting it without judgment, and letting go of attachment to outcomes. In Zen, there’s no room for ego or fear; there’s only the present moment, and how you respond to it. This mindset fosters a sense of peace and clarity, allowing practitioners to flow through life with a calm and open heart. While Zen and comedy might seem like an odd pair at first glance, the two share more in common than you might think.
When I first started out, I thought I was destined to be a stand-up comedian. I imagined a life on the road, performing night after night, constantly honing my craft. But as I allowed myself to go with the flow, I found that my path shifted. I didn’t just become a stand-up comedian — I became the owner of a comedy club, a coach to aspiring comedians, and a mentor to those looking to grow their practice. This journey wasn’t planned, but it was exactly what I needed. By embracing the Zen principle of going with the flow, I found a deeper connection to my work and a new way to contribute to the comedy world.
In my coaching, I’ve noticed that the way I help people write jokes is strikingly similar to Zen practice. I don’t just give them punchlines or tell them what’s funny — I listen. I listen deeply to their stories, their fears, their joys, and their perspectives. By being fully present with them, I can help them find the humor that’s already there, waiting to be uncovered. It’s a process of discovery, not creation, much like how Zen teaches us to uncover our true nature rather than trying to create a new self.
Ultimately, both Zen and stand-up comedy teach us the same thing: to be present, to be ourselves, and to trust the process. Whether I’m on stage, coaching a new comic, or simply running my club, I’ve found that the key to success in comedy — and in life — is to stay in the moment, embrace the uncertainty, and flow with whatever comes my way. And in that way, comedy has become not just a career, but a path to personal enlightenment.
