I was lucky enough to interview the very talented and bold author/comedian Jordan Pease. When we began our conversation, I was immediately taken by the 23-year-old’s passion for life and dedication to his craft.
“When I first moved to California from New Jersey, I had grandiose dreams of everything magically falling into place,” said Pease. “But I quickly learned there are numerous amazingly talented people trying to follow the path I’ve chosen. It became clear that if I am to succeed, I need to throw everything into my work.”
Hard work wasn’t a new concept for the youngster. As a youth in New Jersey, Pease was a leading varsity soccer player and gifted student –
“I always had a deep sense of pride in anything I attempted. I was taught from an early age that if presented with an opportunity or a talent, I should give 100 percent of what I’ve got.”
The same is true where his inner-truths are concerned –
“When it became clear that I was gay, I knew I had to be real with my friends and family.”
This included telling his soccer teammates.
“They were totally supportive and treated me like any other player. I worked hard, they worked hard, and that was all that mattered.”
And then his father died.
“I was 19 and in the process of trying to get the balls up to make something of myself. I always felt there was a greater purpose for my life. The challenges I faced (including the death of my dad) pushed me out of my comfort zone and toward LA.”
Pease didn’t know a single person when he made the big move and this didn’t stop him for a second.
“The secret to my success thus far is to never stop. I’ve always got a notebook with me. I never know when inspiration is going to hit or when I may score a gig. So I’m always trying to be one step ahead of the game.”
In 2013 alone, Pease has performed at more than 60 comedy shows throughout the U.S. and abroad.
“I have a long way to go,” said Pease. “I won’t give up until I make the big time. I want to prove to people my age and younger that with had work anything can happen.”
“I keep hearing tons of excuses from my peers as to why they aren’t working hard toward a goal. One of the lamest is that the economy sucks. I’m going to prove that’s a bunch of B.S.”
Not only does he continue to score gigs, Pease is also the author of two books. His first, Don’t Let me Go, was published in 2010 and is based on his varsity soccer years. The second is a memoir that was published at the beginning of this year. Accidentally Ok satirically chronicles his 90-day adventure through Europe when he was 21.
While Jordan Pease is undoubtably a hilarious human being, I’m most impressed by his willingness to be artfully himself and belief that his wildest dreams will one day come true.
You can’t get much bolder than that!
Enjoy one of his comedy acts, and please pass it on:
Post by Jen Engevik
Project Be Bold