Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to D.B. Frick. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
D.B., thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Is there a historical figure you look up to? Who are they and what lessons or values have you learned from them?
Theodore Roosevelt, a larger-than-life figure in American history, is someone I deeply admire for his indomitable spirit, relentless pursuit of excellence, and commitment to the greater good. Deep down, he was a man of action, fiercely passionate about both his country and the welfare of its citizens. His life was a masterclass in resilience, courage, and the belief that one person can indeed make a difference.
One of the most iconic stories about Roosevelt that highlights his tenacity occurred in 1912, during a campaign speech in Milwaukee. Just moments before he was set to speak, he was shot in the chest by an assailant. Rather than heading straight to the hospital like most would, Roosevelt famously decided to finish his 90-minute speech before seeking medical attention! He told the audience, “It takes more than that to kill a Bull Moose!” This powerful anecdote perfectly encapsulates his motto: carry on, no matter the obstacles. It’s a lesson that resonates deeply with me—the idea that perseverance in the face of adversity is a key to success.
Roosevelt’s passion extended beyond politics to conservation, and his legacy in establishing the national park system and the Boy Scouts of America remains profound. He believed in nurturing the natural world and encouraging young people to embrace adventure, learn from nature, and develop strong moral characters. I admire this vision of empowerment and stewardship, as it teaches us the importance of connecting with our surroundings and giving back to future generations.
On a personal level, Teddy Roosevelt inspires me to strive for the best version of myself. While I may not have scaled the heights of Mount Rushmore (quite the metaphor!), his tenacity motivates me to pursue my dreams and contribute positively to my community. Even if I haven’t come close to achieving all my goals yet, I embrace the journey, knowing that the pursuit of greatness is a worthy endeavor. In the spirit of Roosevelt, I remind myself daily that greatness isn’t just about the destination—it’s about having the grit to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges that lie ahead.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
From a young age, my passion for comedy and performing ignited as I watched legends like Johnny Carson, George Carlin, and the dynamic sketches of “Saturday Night Live” and “Not Necessarily the News.” At just 8 years old, I took a bold step by sending in my first writing submission to HBO’s “Not Necessarily the News.” I contributed a few jokes for their “Singlets” segment performed by Rich Hall, and while none made it on air, I like to think I was the only kid on my block trying to write jokes for a national platform!
My adolescence was a transformative period fueled by my love for the stage. Taking theatre classes was my gateway, but it was at Holy Trinity High School, specifically the credited Theatre Track, where my enthusiasm for improv truly blossomed. By my sophomore year, I was not only performing but also getting paid to teach younger students during summer programs. This early experience solidified my commitment to the arts and strengthened my improvisational skills.
After high school, I joined an improv troupe and spent several years performing in Manhattan’s vibrant East Village. In 1999, fortune smiled upon me when I landed an internship with “Late Night with Conan O’Brien.” As a writing intern, I had the incredible opportunity to contribute jokes that were used by the iconic host. This experience was crucial in shaping my journey, marking the transition from aspiring performer to a working writer.
In 2000, I dove into the stand-up scene, frequently traveling back and forth from Long Island. The open mic nights were exhilarating, allowing me to share the stage with comedy giants like Robin Williams, Jerry Seinfeld, Amy Schumer, and Jim Gaffigan. The camaraderie and creativity in those rooms were electric!
My adventure took a new turn when I moved to Los Angeles from 2007 to 2014, working in the Theatre, Film, and Television department at UCLA. Here, I assisted thousands of students in creating their own short films and sitcoms, collaborating closely with industry talents like Frazier head writer Lori Kirkland Baker and TV icon Concetta Farrell. During this time, I refined my acting craft at the Jekyll and Hyde Club in Manhattan, where my improv skills flourished.
In 2011, I had the honor of joining comic icon Tony Hendra in “The National Lampoon Presents: The Final Edition.” This project rekindled my childhood desire to create satire, and from 2011 to 2019, I passionately wrote, directed, and produced for the legendary brand. My versatility also led me to a writing role on “The Luisa Diaz Show,” produced by Bentley Evans and Martin Lawrence.
Today, I continue to blend my love for performance and creativity in various exciting endeavors. I host seminars on “How to Throw an Improv Show in Your Home” at BroadwayCon, Broadway’s premier theater extravaganza. Additionally, I perform in dinner theatre with the American Immersion Theatre, America’s largest theatre group, and I host wine and cheese events at the famed Murray’s Cheese in Greenwich Village. I even indulge in a niche gig as a Hockey Jersey Customizer for the Islanders Hockey Team.
Currently, I’m thrilled to be pitching a screenplay titled “Goodnight, Mister President,” based on the true story of President Ulysses S. Grant’s arrest by William West, an ex-slave and Civil War soldier turned D.C. officer. It’s projects like this that fuel my creative spirit and drive my ambition to reach new heights.
What sets me apart is my unwavering passion for storytelling, whether through comedy, improv, or writing. I strive to inspire others with my work, proving that dedication and creativity can lead to extraordinary opportunities. I’m incredibly proud of the journey I’ve taken so far, and I’m excited to continue sharing laughter, engaging stories, and unforgettable performances with audiences everywhere. I invite potential clients, followers, and fans to join me on this incredible adventure in the world of entertainment!
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding part of being a creative is the profound ability to inspire others. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about sharing my art and ideas with the world, knowing that my work has the potential to spark joy, provoke thought, or ignite a passion in someone else. Whether it’s through a punchline that elicits laughter, a powerful story that resonates on a personal level, or a captivating performance that draws people in, the opportunity to touch lives and provoke emotions is truly priceless.
Creating is not just about bringing my own visions to life; it’s also about lending credence to my creations by getting them out into the world. Every performance, every script, and every piece of writing carries a piece of my heart and soul. When I see my work come to fruition and resonate with an audience, I’m reminded that all the late nights, brainstorming sessions, and revisions were worth it. The sense of accomplishment that comes from transforming an idea into a tangible reality is exhilarating, and it reinforces my belief in the power of creativity.
Moreover, being a creative allows me to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar passions and dreams. These connections foster a sense of community and collaboration, which is invaluable in the often solitary world of artistic expression. Whether it’s in theatres, comedy clubs, or brainstorming sessions, there’s a unique electricity in sharing experiences and inspirations with others who understand the struggles and joys of the creative process. Through workshops, collaborations, and open mics, I’ve found camaraderie with fellow artists who encourage and uplift one another. The friendships formed in this vibrant creative circle are not only enriching but also provide a support system that empowers all of us to strive for greatness.
Additionally, the act of creating often leads to personal growth and self-discovery. With every project, I learn more about myself—my passions, my limits, and my aspirations. Each artistic endeavor is a journey that challenges me to push beyond my comfort zone, experiment with new ideas, and refine my craft. This constant evolution fuels my drive to remain innovative and to evolve alongside my artistic pursuits.
At its core, being a creative is about more than just self-expression; it’s about contributing to a collective narrative and leaving a mark on the world. The stories we tell, the laughter we share, and the connections we forge create a ripple effect that extends far beyond ourselves. In a world that often feels disconnected, my role as a creative is to bridge that gap—bringing people together, inspiring thought and emotion, and celebrating the beautiful tapestry of human experience through art.
In essence, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative lies in the profound impact I can make on others, the connections I build within the artistic community, and the personal growth I experience through my creative journey. It’s a fulfilling path that transforms not just my life, but the lives of those who engage with my work.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Absolutely, here’s a story that illustrates your resilience in the entertainment industry while reflecting on the kindness and the challenges you’ve encountered along the way:
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One particular moment that stands out in my journey through the entertainment industry occurred during a pivotal period in my career. After years of honing my craft as a comedian and writer, I found myself amidst a community of seasoned professionals at an industry networking event. The room was buzzing with the energy of talent—Oscars winners, successful showrunners, and A-list actors mingling effortlessly. I was ecstatic to be there, yet a tad overwhelmed by the vastness of it all.
As I navigated the crowd, I struck up a conversation with a successful producer known for his hit television shows. The initial exchange was friendly, filled with laughter and anecdotes. However, as the conversation deepened, it became apparent that he had his sights set on a specific direction for a new project that he was developing. His vision was ambitious, but it involved a significant pivot from the creative ideas I had been passionately pursuing.
In that moment, I faced a choice: stick to my convictions and risk losing an incredible opportunity, or demonstrate my willingness to adapt and allow his ideas to shape the project. It was a classic crossroads of creativity versus compromise—a lesson I know all too well in an industry that often demands flexibility and collaboration.
Drawing on my resilience, I chose the latter. Instead of feeling threatened by his success or doubting my own creative instincts, I leaned into the challenge. I opened myself up to his ideas, allowing them to spark new thoughts and inspire greater concepts. By the time we wrapped up our conversation, we had turned a simple chat into the seed of something truly exciting. His perspective brought forth ideas I had never considered, and in that exchange, I discovered the beauty of collective creativity.
As I began to embrace this willingness to collaborate, I realized that kindness truly reigns in our industry. Many successful people are genuinely eager to share their wisdom and uplift others. Yes, beneath the surface, there can be a ruthless underbelly—a competitive landscape often punctuated by ambition and harsh realities. But alongside that is a thriving network of support, mentorship, and camaraderie that is equally powerful.
With time, I’ve learned how invaluable it is to let go of ego and embrace the ideas of others. I’ve noticed that my best work isn’t just about my singular vision; it’s about weaving the contributions of those around me into a tapestry that captures the essence of collaboration. The kindness I encountered during that networking event became a catalyst for growth, propelling me forward while allowing me to forge relationships that would help me in future endeavors.
This experience reinforced my understanding of resilience: it’s not just about standing firm in the face of adversity, but also about adapting, learning, and evolving. As I continue my journey through the entertainment landscape, I carry this lesson with me—always ready to share my own ideas while remaining open to the brilliance that others bring to the table. In an industry filled with both challenges and opportunities, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t solely about the struggle; it’s also about the willingness to evolve and the courage to embrace the creativity that thrives in me and others.
Contact Info:
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D.B. Frick