MAA #001: With Dan Willis

Interview with Dan "the best guest so far" Willis.  Dan is a British comedian who has lived in Australia for 3 years, and doing comedy for 14 years.  He holds the record for the most solo comedy shows (although he questions whether this is a desirable record to hold). We discuss the highs and lows of working in comedy, thoughts on Russell Brand, comedians' egos, the pros and cons of venting, setting boundaries, the joys and challenges of bringing comedians out to Australia, dealing with people who steal ideas, self-worth, positive use of stage nerves, mantras, corporate gigs, surpassing "the comedy poo" phase, practice making perfect, posting on YouTube, people who steal jokes or take short-cuts with writers, Stewart Lee and Robin Williams, "happy places" for time out amidst comedy festivals, the challenges of debt, expectations and realism, comedy plans for the year ahead, values of integrity and loyalty, and the festival circuit in Australia.  Enjoy!