Yola Lu On Shame & Heartbreak, Comedy As Therapy, & Making Parents Proud

Lauren Ashley Smith has served as Head Writer on The Rundown with Robin Thede and HBO's A Black Lady Sketch Show. In this conversation, Lauren talks about how she broke into the entertainment industry and how trusting her gut led to her job at The Rundown. Get the free Zero to Pilot Guide https://getthatwerk.thinkific.com/products/digital_downloads/zero-to-pilot-in-8-weeks Episode Takeaways: -Having women in leadership roles can contribute to a well-organized and collaborative work environment. -Gaining experience in television and working in various roles can provide valuable insights and opportunities. -Serendipitous moments and taking risks can lead to unexpected career opportunities. -Trusting your gut and being decisive are important qualities in running a successful show and writer's room. -There is a need for standardized room structures in various industries to ensure organization and efficiency. -Personal relationships and treating people with respect are key to success in the entertainment industry. -Moving from a small town to a big city can be a significant change, but having a support system and diverse experiences can make the transition easier. -Living in different cities can offer unique advantages and disadvantages, and personal preferences play a role in deciding where to live. Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

Kerry Coddett (Flatbush Misdemeanors) is an writer and entertainer in New York. In this episode of The Werking Writer Podcast, Kerry emphasizes the need to take control of one's career and not let trends or industry expectations dictate one's path. Kerry also shares her experience of having her sister as her manager and how their unconventional approach has led to success. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by black performers in the industry and the importance of maintaining creative control. TakeawaysTake control of your career and don't let trends or industry expectations dictate your path.Maintain creative control and continue doing the work you love, even when opportunities or partnerships arise.Having a supportive and sharp manager can make a significant difference in navigating the industry.Challenges exist for black performers in the industry, but staying true to oneself and finding unique approaches can lead to success. The entertainment industry lacks knowledge and creativityTaking risks and stepping outside of the norm is difficult in the industryFocusing on what you can control is crucial for successInvesting in yourself and your own projects is empoweringThe process is more important than the end resultGet the free guide to stop procrastinating: https://dogged-builder-4070.ck.page/75c325f62a Join the newsletter: https://www.getthatwerk.com/join Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

Kristen Bartlett is a five-time Emmy-nominated writer, performer, and producer. Her credits include How to Die Alone, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee where she served as Head Writer and Executive Producer, and Saturday Night Live. Kristen has written pilots for ABC and CBS, been honored with three WGA Awards and a Peabody, and her work has been featured in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and Vulture. Her show The Dead Dads Club, a darkly funny take on loss, performed to sold out audiences in New York, Los Angeles, and Montreal. In this episode, she reflects on the burnout culture in Hollywood and the need for boundaries and self-care. Kristen also shares her journey of finding her true self and being honest about who she is. She highlights the significance of good leadership and not turning a good thing into a bad thing. Kristen's lessons include valuing oneself, embracing authenticity, and finding joy in the present moment.TakeawaysBreaking into the comedy industry often requires taking risks and pursuing your dreams, even if it seems unlikely or unfamiliar.The first year at SNL can be intense and sleep-deprived, but it offers the opportunity to respond to current events and work with talented individuals.Overcoming scarcity mindset and allowing oneself to take up space is an ongoing process, especially for those who grew up with limited resources.Healing the inner child and addressing past traumas is an important part of personal growth and self-acceptance. Healing and self-worth are important in the creative industrySetting boundaries and practicing self-care are crucial to avoid burnoutBeing honest about who you are and embracing authenticity leads to fulfillmentGood leadership is key to a successful and joyful work environmentDon't turn a good thing into a bad thing by creating unnecessary problemsValue yourself and find joy in the present moment Mentioned in the episode:Download my free 'Stop Procrastinating' Guide  Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

Franchesca Leigh Ramsey, also known as Chescaleigh, is an American comedian, activist, television and YouTube personality, and actress, who has appeared on MTV and MSNBC. Mentioned in the episode:Werk with CharlaFree Guide: How to Stop Procrastinating and Get In Flow With Your WorkWell, That Escalated Quickly:Memoirs and Mistakes of an Accidental ActivistTakeawaysTransitioning from a day job to a creative career can be uncertain and anxiety-inducing.Being open to new opportunities and pivoting when necessary is important in a creative career.Having a routine and practicing self-care, such as therapy, can help navigate the challenges of a creative career. Finding balance and joy outside of work is crucial for creative professionals.Taking breaks and living life can actually enhance creativity and inspiration.Pursuing creative endeavors for fun and personal fulfillment, rather than solely for financial success, can bring more joy and satisfaction.The pandemic has opened up new possibilities for working in the entertainment industry remotely.Sharing knowledge and supporting each other as creatives is important for personal and collective success. Selling projects that don't go to series can be heartbreaking, but it's important to remember that it's a common experience in the industry.Setting goals within your control, such as writing a great first draft, can help shift your mindset and focus on what you can do.Investing in yourself, whether it's taking classes or seeking opportunities, can lead to personal and professional growth.Believing in yourself and your work is crucial, even when faced with rejection or negative opinions.Healing past traumas and being kind to yourself are essential for personal and creative growth.   Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

DAHÉLI HALL is an LA-based screenwriter, director, and comedian. A true hybrid comic talent, she is perhaps most well-known as a writer and recurring guest star, on Netflix's acclaimed comedy series, DEAR WHITE PEOPLE, and as a cast member on the Emmy-winning sketch show, MADtv on Fox. Mentioned in the episode:Buddha in Your Mirror: Practical Buddhism and the Search for Self Spadura Show, May 8th at Lyric Hyperion in Los Angeles TakeawaysThe entertainment industry often puts artists in boxes and expects them to conform to certain roles or genres.Booking a network television show can be a thrilling experience, but it can also lead to a loss of creative freedom and a focus on validation from the industry.It's important for artists to be honest with themselves about what they truly enjoy and want to pursue, rather than letting industry expectations dictate their path.Writing can be a powerful tool for self-expression and healing, especially during challenging times.Dahéli Hall's one-woman show, Spadora, became a way for her to explore her own experiences and cope with her depression. Turning personal experiences into art can create empathy and understandingTrusting in the universe and letting go of expectations can lead to unexpected opportunitiesBeing vulnerable and kind are important qualities in the artist communityPerseverance is key in pursuing a career in the arts   Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

Brandon Gardner is a writer and improviser living in Los Angeles. He has been a teacher and performer at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in LA since 2016. In 2018 he wrote and starred in the semi-scripted short film Partners (2018). In 2019 he produced and directed the improvised series Scenes on a Park Bench and Scenes in an Office. David (2020), a short film he co-wrote with Zach Woods, was an official selection of the 2020 Cannes Film Festival. Bud (2021), his second short film written with Woods, was released in 2021.TakeawaysImprov can help shy individuals overcome their fears and become more outgoing.Transitioning from performing to writing can be a challenging but rewarding process.Financial stability becomes a priority as comedians and writers get older.Collaboration and persistence are key in the entertainment industry. Opportunities can arise unexpectedly, even for those with no prior writing credits.Working in animation may involve additional steps, such as providing feedback on animatics.Running a writer's room with more experienced writers can be a learning experience.Giving opportunities to less expensive writers can lead to fresh and original voices.The response to a show may be positive, but limited viewership can impact its cultural impact.The creative industry is uncertain, and it's important to stay open to new opportunities.Originality and writing what you enjoy are key to standing out in the industry.   Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

Jerah Milligan is a Washington D.C.-born actor, comedian, director and writer. His short film MAHOGANY DRIVE recently screened at the Slamdance Film Festival. Previously, Jerah co-created and starred in Netflix's ASTRONOMY CLUB, produced by Kenya Baris and Dan Powell. Recently, Jerah directed the sketch segments of Yvonne Orji's latest HBO Special: A WHOLE ME. Other directing credits include Showtime's DESUS & MERO. In front of the camera, Jerah can next be seen in the short JAMAAL, directed by Yvonne Orji for Powderkeg. His acting credits also include Netflix’s “Black Mirror,” “Broad City,” “Blue Bloods,” “Chicago P.D.,” “The Detour,” and Apple TV+’s “Helpsters”. He's also been featured in sketches for Above Average, Funny or Die, College Humor and Girl Code. Jerah is a co-host of the podcast, Black Men Can't Jump, in Hollywood.Mentioned in the episode:The Death of the Artist: How Creators Are Struggling to Survive in the Age of Billionaires and Big TechTakeawaysNavigating predominantly white comedy spaces can be challenging for black comedians.The entertainment industry is filled with struggles and personal failures, but it's important to keep pushing forward.Supporting and celebrating others' success is crucial, even when facing personal challenges.Nepotism is a prevalent issue in Hollywood that can hinder opportunities for aspiring artists. The entertainment industry can be challenging, and success often requires perseverance and resilience.Backdoor maneuvering and taking unconventional paths can sometimes be necessary to achieve success.Diversity and representation in the industry are important, and there is a need for more opportunities for underrepresented voices.The relationship between artists and their representatives can be complex, and it is important to find a balance between advocating for oneself and trusting the expertise of the rep.Celebrating wins, no matter how small, is important for maintaining motivation and perspective in a competitive industry. Code-switching is a necessary skill in the entertainment industry, especially when pitching to predominantly white audiences.Speaking up about mistreatment and holding people accountable is essential for creating positive change in the industry.Career challenges and setbacks are common, but they can provide valuable learning experiences.Perfecting the pitch and being thoroughly prepared can greatly increase the chances of success.Trusting in your own voice and embracing your unique quirks can set you apart and lead to success.   Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

Yola Jean Lu is a comedian, actress and writer based out of Austin, TX. She is one of the cofounders of the only all Asian improv troupe in Texas called Y'all We Asian, and also performs weekly with her all female/nb improv troupe, Garage. She recently just finished post production of her short film, Patsy, and is currently working on a one woman show called "Help! My Vagina is Trying to Kill Me!" that will be making its Edinburgh Fringe Festival premiere this year.TakeawaysNavigating parental approval can be challenging for comedians, especially when their career choices are not fully understood or supported.Yola Jean Lu's journey into comedy started with a stand-up class and evolved into a passion for both stand-up and improv.Yola's current projects include a short film called Patsy and a solo show titled 'Help, My Vagina is Trying to Kill Me,' which explores personal topics such as herpes and mental health. There is a stigma around herpes, but it is important to educate oneself and challenge misconceptions.Disclosing personal health conditions can be challenging, but open communication is key.Miscarriage is a traumatic experience that is often not talked about, leading to feelings of shame and isolation.The lack of listening and dismissal in healthcare can have devastating consequences for women, especially women of color.Comedy and art can be therapeutic and empowering, allowing individuals to share their stories and connect with others. Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

Meghan Ross is a New York-born, Jersey-raised, Austin-based writer/director, comedian, and activist who loves to put a feel-good spin on feel-bad stuff by making social issues more accessible through comedy. She was selected for Women at Sundance Adobe Fellowship, Sundance Episodic Lab, NewNarratives grant from NewFilmmakers LA & Warner Bros. Discovery’s OneFifty, and Table Read My Screenplay: Park City’s Top 10 Finalists for her half-hour comedy Here to Make Friends (also her personal tagline).Her previous shorts premiered on The New Yorker and made their Best of 2020 list: If You Ever Hurt My Daughter, I Swear to God I’ll Let Her Navigate Her Own Emotional Growth featuring narration by Jon Hamm (nominated for The Webby Awards), and Finally a Female Presidential Candidate Likable Enough For Men featuring narration by Rachel Bloom. Her writing has been published in VICE, Reductress, The Toast, IFC, TV Without Pity, Slackjaw, and more.  TakeawaysEnsure the writing is in a good place before starting production.Adapting a pilot into a short film can be challenging due to differences in storytelling approaches.Know why you're making a film and be able to convince others to support your project.Hire BIPOC and underrepresented people to bring diversity and inclusivity to your productions.Make the most of fellowships and programs by advocating for yourself and building relationships with fellow participants.Adapt your career goals and consider indie filmmaking as a viable path in a challenging industry.Continue creating and learning from rejections and failures.   Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube

TakeawaysBreaking into the TV industry often requires taking unconventional paths and being willing to take risks.The journey to success in the industry can be challenging and uncertain, but maintaining a sense of urgency and curiosity can help navigate the obstacles.Building a network and developing relationships within the industry can provide opportunities and a sense of security.The role of a showrunner comes with unique challenges and responsibilities, requiring a different mindset and skill set than being a staff writer. Episode Credits:Produced and hosted by Charla LauristonTheme song and Segment Jingles composed and produced by Brendan ByrnesCanva Artwork by Daiana Cordo WHERE TO CONNECTInstagramYoutube