Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Austin Hall. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Austin, thanks for joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

As an artist, I am happy more often than not, which is all anybody can really ask for in life. Sometimes you’re up and sometimes you’re down; I’m just lucky enough to be up more. I never wonder about what it would be like to have a regular job because I already know that I was miserable in one. When I quit my job in finance, my life went from making money hating what I did to loving what I do not making any. Things were great for a while until I started hating the fact that I couldn’t make money doing what I love, but then I began to love the fact that I could finally afford a “Happy Meal.” Like I said, ups and downs.

Austin, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Right out of college, I jumped straight into the finance industry, eager to climb the corporate ladder and make a name for myself. But as the years went by and I switched from one job to another, I couldn’t shake off the nagging feeling that I was stuck in a soulless routine that didn’t align with my true passions. And so, with a heavy heart and a burning desire to chase my dreams, I made the bold decision to pack my bags and head out West to the City of Angels, Los Angeles. But not before moving in with my parents and saving every penny I could, determined to make my mark in the entertainment industry and pursue what I truly loved.

Living in the cramped back room of my 80-year-old Uncle Tommy’s house, every night was the same: chicken neck dinners, and the looming fear of a future with no prospects. I desperately searched for a purpose, taking acting classes and attending film school, but none of it gave me the same thrill as the thought of stepping onto the stage at an open mic night in Westwood. Despite waiting for three nerve-wracking hours for my three-minute set, the euphoria I felt afterward was like nothing I had ever experienced before. I quickly became obsessed, attending an open mic every single day, and devouring every stand-up comedy clip I could find on YouTube. Through the grueling process of trial and error, I finally found my true calling in life.

I was born in Washington D.C and raised in Indianapolis, the youngest of three siblings in a multi-racial family. Growing up, I was constantly exposed to different cultures and experiences, and it taught me how to find humor in even the most challenging situations. My love for stand-up comedy and film/TV was always there, burning bright inside me. So when I arrived in L.A, I knew I had to take the leap of faith and follow my dreams. And let me tell you, it hasn’t been easy. But every day, I wake up feeling grateful for the opportunity to do what I love, to connect with audiences and bring laughter to their lives.

My style of comedy is sharp, witty, and unapologetically honest. I’m not afraid to tackle tough societal issues and offer unique perspectives that challenge the status quo. With my gift for blending humor with social commentary, I hope to make a positive impact on the world, one joke at a time. Whether I’m on stage talking about race, politics, relationships, or something else entirely, I always strive to keep my audience engaged and entertained. With my energetic delivery, animated storytelling, and plenty of punchlines, I’m committed to bringing joy and laughter into people’s lives.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I believe society should provide more support to its artists by embracing failure as a natural part of the creative process. All too often, public criticism can discourage artists and inhibit their work. The act of creating is a delicate dance of trial and error, and failure is often necessary to pave the way to success. In the world of comedy, I’ve noticed a disturbing trend of comedians being canceled or reprimanded for jokes that may still be works in progress. As Patrice O’Neal once said, “Good jokes and bad jokes come from the same place,” and I believe it’s crucial to safeguard the creative process, no matter how messy or uncomfortable it may be. In a way, it’s similar to the process of inventing. If Thomas Edison’s seventeenth attempt at the light bulb had been canceled instead of his 1,000th attempt, we would still be using oil lamps today. We must allow room for experimentation and failure in order to pave the way for innovation and progress.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

As an artist, there is nothing more fulfilling than the power to connect with people and make a positive impact on their lives. Through humor, I have discovered a unique ability to bring people together, creating a shared experience that cannot be replicated. My stand-up comedy has allowed me to connect with my audience on a deep, emotional level, building a sense of community through my material. With each bit I perform, I have the opportunity to inspire, educate, and promote social change – all through the tool of laughter. I take pride in challenging people’s perspectives and expanding their way of thinking. And there is no greater feeling than knowing that my work has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives. And if all else fails, at least I can make them laugh so hard that their worries melt away for a little while.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://music.apple.com/us/album/american-native/1645932302
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinhallcomedy/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/austin.hall.7
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AustinHall

Image Credits
Eric Williams