Welcome Anjelah Johnson:
We’re joined on the Starline by stand-up comedian, actress and author. Her memoir “Who Do I Think I Am?” kicked off a 60 city comedy tour. We welcome Anjelah Johnson.
Anjelah, let’s go Beyond the Mic. In your book you cover an amazing life, well lived from a suburban kid NFL cheerleader to comedian. Born in San Jose, how did your early years help you with your comedy today?
What makes something funny for you? What’s not funny?
You’ve done ad campaigns, starred in television and films. Where do you find your happiness? Where is that sweet spot where you think, “gosh, I love doing this”?
Three podcasts, a new book, and a full merchandise line. When do you have time to sleep?
Who are the comedians that have inspired you growing up?
The Rockin’ 8:
It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions; answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.
1. #1 thing on your bucket list?
2. Best place you visited in Europe?
3. Person you want to work with that you haven’t yet?
4. Why is the love of a dog so unconditionally wonderful?
5. Are you good or bad at changing diapers?
6. If you find a penny on the ground, do you pick it up or keep walking?
7. Would you join Witness Protection for your own safety if it meant leaving your fame behind?
8. Most annoying habit of your husband?
The Back Half with Anjelah Johnson:
Comedy clubs closed, world shut down… how did you survive the pandemic quarantine? What did you do with that time? Cooking meditating
What’s your favorite thing to grow?
Your podcast Nights around the Round Table tackles difficult questions. Why was doing this important for you?
You told a friend recently to “Set an intention for the year”, so what’s the intention you have for you this year?
God and Family are so important to you. Anjelah, how has your family strengthened you?
Giving Back:
Why is Unlikely Heroes your charity of choice?
How does your husband help you develop comedy?
We all have passion in things, hobbies. Where do you get your passion from?
How did your time at De Anza College prepare you for today?
You have a choice with film, tv or even voice acting. Which are you happier doing feature film or television show?
How has comedy changed for you for the better and the worse since you started?
There is a difficulty of content and how the world has changed the way you create comedy today. Could some members of the Asian community feel offended when you are just giving a window to what you see when you are in a nail salon?
On tour:
When you are on tour what should people expect?
Why does making people laugh feed your soul?
You love helping small businesses. It’s a habit you have helping others. How does giving back help you?
How do you want to inspire the next generation of comedians, especially from the Latino communities?
Next project?
One Big Question:
You said on social media referring to your grandma “I wish I could have a conversation with her now knowing what I know, having matured and evolved to where I am today.” What’s the one question you would want your grandma to answer?
The Wrap:
She wants to work with Sandra Bullock, walks past pennies on the ground because they are dirty and wants you to buy her memoir “Who Do I Think I Am?” Comedian Anjelah Johnson thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.
And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.
Listen to other conversations with Comedians here.
