We recently connected with Raul Hernandez and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Raul, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I knew I wanted to be a comedian at an early age. Some kids would watch M Tv or Nickelodeon when they were growing up; I would watch Comedy specials and late night talk shows.

I love to make a person happy, especially when they are going through a tough one. Being silly and behaving in a way to bring levity to a situation comes easy to me. I like to learn about the inner workings of comedy; how to get any audience to the point of forgetting their reality, and enjoying a bunch of jokes.
I’ve been a ham my whole life, my family can attest to this.

A person burns 5 calories from a genuine laugh, so laughter must be good for you some how.

Raul, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I have been a comedian for almost 4 years now, and hosting a variety of shows across south Florida for over 3 of those years.

My main goal is to make Miami and south Florida a comedy hub; much like other major metropolitan cities are. In 2021, I started this journey in the farthest south bar Miami has to offer; now, I pack out rooms across the Magic City.

I have assisted in marketing venues, performing for municipalities, and making people of all ages go home with a laugh.

This also helps bring business to many of the venues I perform in. Since the introduction of Streaming and Digital television, there has become a great demand for live entertainment. Comedy is a great source of entertainment, unlike other art forms; comedy must adjust and be fresh almost every time a performer takes the stage. Comedy is also a great way for a person to explore public speaking, or translating their thoughts to a performance.

I have performed in front of audiences all across the United States. And I can say, there is no hotter market, and no place in the nation where comedy is more unfiltered and pure than south Florida.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding part of my creative journey is making people leave a show with a smile on their face. In our current culture, it is easy to focus on the negative aspects of life. Bringing levity and joy to an audience should, in my personal opinion, be the goal of any artist now at days.

Besides laughs, I truly enjoy seeing comedians rise and become solid performers in the South Florida Comedy Scene. There are comics who started as open miners in some of the shows i ran; and seeing them prosper and excel, it lets me know i’m doing something right.

I love the communal nature of the comedians in our region. We support each other, and protect each other; much like a team. I truly hope I contributed to the Comedy Scene growth in Miami in some way.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

I think people who have a regular 9-5 job or a career outside the arts should understand that many artists (including comedians) also work jobs; while pursing their artistic passion at home or at night. Many times, I hide how haggard I am, trying to juggle this pursuit and supporting myself. Many artists do the same, and it can lead to burnout or draining of their social skills. I know friends who are digital artists that leave their nursing job, to burn the midnight oil on homework revolving around drawing story boards and such.

It’s a small burden, but it is something to be considered when you interact with any artist.

I would also like to say, being a comedian is not an easy feat. Not only are comics working up the gumption to go up on stage with crafted jokes; some may consider this a courageous act. One thing I believe most audiences don’t consider is, most all comedians go up on stage to make you laugh and feel joy; no more, no less. Many people think comedians have a political slant or try to bring pain to an audience; really it’s quite the opposite. Yes, comedians use real things in their jokes, it does not mean a joke is a comedian’s real perspective or beliefs.

If you ever attend a comedy show, please go in mind that you will be hearing jokes; and that is ll they are, jokes.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.DadeCountyComedy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/funnyraul/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/funnyraul
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FailingwithStylePodcast
• Other: Elephants in the Room Comedy Show: https://www.miamiimprov.com/shows/235239

Image Credits
Photography by Angles By Alex (@TheWatchier)