Mel Stephens: Being a Creator is Brutal and Beautiful! episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 9, 2026 · 1H 36M

Mel Stephens: Being a Creator is Brutal and Beautiful!

from Punching Up with Sean Conroy · host Sean Conroy

Comedian, filmmaker, and Groundlings alum Mel Stephens and I talk about going from performing to being a writer and director. And why!  What it’s like to be a comedian working with comedian Brett Goldstein to shoot a high-stakes short film in one take; what it’s like when you realize your comedic sensibilities don’t align with the establishment; what it’s like when you realize that no one is coming to rescue you—you have to push the boulder up the hill yourself. And what you can do about it. What you have to do about it. Mel talks about why accepting that writing is supposed to be hard turns out to be the ultimate creative freedom. Mel and I talk about whether or not creative joy is a myth,anxiety, how setting deadlines helps, and (I should listen to this part) why marketing yourself is how you avoid staying hidden.Don't miss Mel's upcoming YouTube stand-up special Sparkles on June 23rd! Follow her @MelM.Stevens.

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Mel Stephens: Being a Creator is Brutal and Beautiful!

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