Accessibility, Ambition & the Business of Being Funny | Danielle Perez | Comedian, Actor & Writer

What does it mean to create a life that’s both deeply authentic and unapologetically ambitious? Comedian, actor, and writer Danielle Perez joins Kara Duffy to talk about building a career in entertainment while navigating disability, representation, and the realities of modern creative life. Together they explore the power of visibility, the importance of accessibility, and why success in creative industries requires far more than talent alone. Danielle shares candid stories about stand-up comedy, acting alongside Larry David on Curb Your Enthusiasm, surviving the chaos of LA entertainment culture, and the spreadsheets, systems, and resilience that keep her moving forward. ---------------------------------------------------------------- The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. INSTA: @divadelux 00:00 — Introduction to Danielle Perez 02:00 — The Accident That Changed Danielle’s Life 03:15 — Discovering Stand-Up Comedy 04:15 — Friendship, Support Systems & Madison Shepherd 04:50 — Disability Representation, DEI & Accessibility 07:20 — Why Representation in Media Matters 08:35 — The Weird Things People Say to Disabled People 13:00 — Accessibility, the ADA & Public Spaces 19:50 — Acting, Writing & Creative Vulnerability 23:20 — Success, Ambition & The Entertainment Industry 29:10 — The Business of Comedy & Creative Careers 33:20 — Goal Setting, Lists & Creative Discipline 36:00 — The Myth of the “Tortured Artist” 41:50 — Hustle Culture, MLMs & the Manosphere 44:30 — Advocacy, Identity & Public Expectations 47:10 — Accessible Fashion & Plus-Size Challenges 52:15 — Acting on Curb Your Enthusiasm 55:15 — Upcoming Projects & Returning to Ballard 56:10 — What Power Means to Danielle Perez 57:10 — Supporting Artists & Live Comedy 58:35 — Where to Follow Danielle Perez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices