How to Be a Brave Bitch with Kristin Giese
Sometimes we’re so set on achieving and being productive that we don’t take time to find actual joy in our passions. Setting aside expectations and allowing yourself to have fun is the key to discovering new opportunities. That’s the advice of our guest, Kristin Giese, this week on the Dope Ass Podcast. Kristin is as hilarious as she is wise and has so many nuggets to share, tune in!
Kristin Giese does all the things. She’s a comedian who has worked as a talent manager and producer. She’s even written a book! If you’re wondering how she’s done so many different things – things that open her up to criticism and rejection at that – it all comes down to taking every opportunity that comes her way and lots of laughter.
You do not want to miss this episode of Dope Ass Podcast as Kristin not only takes us inside her creative process but also gives the pep talk you need to start leveling up at whatever dream you want to pursue. Kristin talks about how bravery begets more bravery, why success isn’t a straight line, and how to set and achieve goals. Think of this as a masterclass in personal development with a few laughs thrown in. Listen!
[00:48] - Kristin's speech writing journey
[05:34] - Better storytelling through comedy
[10:10] - The darkness of comics off-stage
[13:50] - Sharpen your sword
[15:55] - Challenge yourself
[23:15] - Unverified: A Novel
[31:31] - Chutzpah
[38:08] - The difference between success and goals
[41:20] - You can't beat me down
[45:16] - You get what you fear
[47:35] - How does Kristin live a dope ass life?
CHASE YOUR DREAMS, THE DOPE ASS WAY
If you’re wondering, “What the f*ck did we talk about before corona?” this week’s episode of the DAP is for you, my friend.
I sat down with talent manager, brand developer, executive producer, comedian and writer (whew that’s a mouthful!), Kristin Giese to talk about all the incredible experiences she’s garnered in her prolific career.
You see, Kristin went to college intending to become a speechwriter before learning the inevitable lesson that words matter, and if you go into politics, you don’t always get to choose how your words are spoken, or by whom. Sticking to her convictions and putting her degree-backed ability to sell to work, she began waitressing at a Cleveland comedy lounge.
There she brushed shoulders with industry greats like Dave Chappelle, and her talent for managing talent was uncovered. Kristin was exposed to the world of PR and began a career as a publicist. Soon she became a talent manager, and finally executive producer. But according to Kristin (and she’s right), once you take on one opportunity that scares you, the flood gates open and you’re trying new things left and right.
Case in point? Kristin’s turn down the authorial lane. Inspired by her clients, most of whom are reality stars, she set out to create a scripted version of their lives. Turned down and laughed out of the room by douchebag producers (no, they aren’t just in movies) for not being a writer, Kristin proved them wrong. She evolved her idea from screenplay to text and got that ish published.
Was it easy? Hell no! But Kristin’s got some pretty dope advice on ignoring the haters and pursuing your dreams anyway, which she picked up from her mom, Janet. First up, you’ve got to do things for yourself. You are not performing for an audience, you’re building your life for you. And yes, that applies even when you’re doing standup, sharing the stage with a bunch of guys in their mid-20s. Your success and fulfillment is for you.
Second, when you vibrate at the right level, you invite everyone and everything at that level to come into your life, too. Live and breathe your success, and open up your heart. Talk to the person next to you on the plane, at the coffee shop (not practical advice, right now, I know) and stay open to the opportunity to connect with people who can support you. You’ll be shocked at the ways in which the universe comes together to get you where you are supposed to be.
And finally, speaking of where you’re supposed to be, that might look different than you originally imagined. I, for example, am working on a script for a Netflix show. That’s my dream and my goal, but it’s important to remember that every step of the way is a part of building that life and stepping into success. So even when rejection comes—it will, and it’s always going to sting—dream on, y’all. The world is your oyster, waiting for you to do exactly what you want to do.
On the Dope Ass Podcast, Andrea Levoff and her roster of hilarious, inspirational, and always-opinionated guests are tackling everything from motherhood to fashion to travel and spirituality---with a seriously dope ass lens. But don’t take our word for it. Learn more about your dope ass host and her mission to make everyone see the world through hot pink-colored glasses at https://www.andrealevoff.com/.
This podcast episode was produced by Dante32.