Russell Howard: How To Laugh Through Fear, Anxiety & Imposter Syndrome | E109

This weeks episode 'How To Laugh Through Fear, Anxiety & Imposter Syndrome ' topics:
0:00 Intro
03:22 Your family
07:10 Why you ultimately became a comedian
14:21 Dealing with the high of comedy shows compared to normal life
19:30 Getting into stand up
26:52 What are the key things that got you here?
29:47 How does the laugh impact you
32:10 Looking for the 'bit' in everything
35:52 How do negative reviews impact you?
42:10 Impostor syndrome
44:48 Mental health implications and using fear as a motivator
55:03 Therapy
01:03:07 Your pre show rituals
01:06:00 The lowest moment of your life
01:16:48 What would happen if you could never write a joke again?
01:28:40 Are you happy?
01:35:07 Your Netflix special
01:43:09 The last guests question
Russell:
/ russellhoward
/ russellhoward
@Russell Howard
Listen on:
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[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Of all the podcasts I’ve recorded, I think Russell might have surprised me the most 🤯 thank you Russell for your honesty and vulnerability 🙏🏽…. hit like and subscribe for a new episode every Monday

[@planetearth7031]

Hey Steve, another awesome podcast. But from a much earlier one you spoke of your favourite intellectuals debating on KZbin, and I've been super curious about who they were ever since.

[@hazeltownshend2355]

Stece please interview Daniel Sloss he has an incredible story and is a Scottish comedian.

[@gmy33]

Cybertruck is wild !!! Also look into the aptera !!! Thats hoe a xar should look and function uses half the energy of a tesla and probably a tenth of a cybertruck .. thus using less energy less sources more range and cheaper more sustainable . Plus right of repair !! ... i ordered cybertruck as well but will sell it to my brother .. the aptera is the new benchmark !!

[@MSBLS721]

Russell Howard. You gave three answers and only ONE fit the rule of a one-word answer 🤣😂🤣

[@DEBZLUVSTOCHILL]

Really enjoyed this - Russell is not only brilliantly funny he also seems to be a genuinely beautiful human being! ❤ ps: I was one of the lucky ones to have attended the Ashton Gate gig, it was awesome 🔥

[@sebluketravis2438]

Great shout on Mitch Hedberg! ''It takes forever to cook a baked potato. Sometimes, I'll put one in the oven even if I don't want one, cuz by the time it's done, who knows?''

[@feralbluee]

“now, is a hippopotamus a hippopotamus? or a really cool opotamus?” Mitch

[@sebluketravis2438]

@@feralbluee lol

[@TheOldHippiebilly]

❤Mitch❤

[@StevieB86]

"There's captivation in silence. You never know whether you've been captivating or dull...because the sound is the same". As an English teacher who's always suffered with anxiety, I can relate to this on numerous different levels. Beautiful.

[@logicandlaughs]

Yes!!

[@Shebeast3]

👏👏

[@BurnItUpp2009]

I absolutely adore Russell. He is so eloquent and present in the moment.

[@elenariad9303]

I love how he was asking YOU questions back. Not a lot of guests of yours do that :)

[@haleemasherkhan3545]

Finally, a British podcast having conversations with British people. I’m from East London, British south Asian and I feel so connected to this conversation. Thoroughly enjoyed listening to Jimmy Carr and was totally gobsmacked to see that side of him. Thanks for bringing us this podcast.

[@meretriciousinsolent]

He's the kind of person everyone needs. And oh my word, what a beautiful example of the fact that you don't have to have a shitty life to be a driven and successful person. Parents can just be loving, then instil good values in their kids and let them run with them, WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT? Love him. Just love that he exists. And I love that he kept making Stephen laugh when he was trying to talk. Utter joy.

[@batmanslarynx]

Always been one of my favourite comedians. I've luckily seen this side of him a few times in the interviews. He's such a good person. Shame that this isn't getting as many views as the other comedians you've interviewed because he's definitely up there with the best, both being funny and just as a human.

[@olivercoulthard5468]

Really love the reciprocity of this interview, Russell constantly asking back all these questions, feels much more like a meaningful conversation

[@lozstrickland1125]

What a Lovely Man Russell is the way he talks about his Family is Wonderful ❤

[@TheSlinq]

100% agree with Russell Howard's 3 things, if people like him ran the world, it'd be a much happier place.

[@xtd5948]

made me cry listening to Russell talk about his grandparents, with such love .

[@geraldhills41]

A truly intelligent compassionate person .

[@phoenixrising5088]

Russell is a brilliant comedian. Humour through topics that are so relevant and brings awareness through great humour and such a kind, thoughtful Man.

[@PhilReid]

The comedians definitely have a way with words that viewers can relate to. So, so interesting once again 👏🏼☺️

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Thank you Phil

[@ryanmurphy7534]

I genuinely believe comedians are the smartest people in the business. Mainly because of Richard Osmans House of Games, but still I think it is true lol

[@Shebeast3]

👏👏

[@vanessamartin5522]

So true about laughter, my friend got diagnosed with bowel cancer a few weeks ago, she said she's doesn't want a bag, I hugged her, said that might not happen, but if she did & someone annoys her, she could just slap them with the poop bag, we both laughed. I also work for Tesco 😆

[@philbennett806]

This exactly how I imagined Russel to be. Just a lovely man x.

[@SMay-rg5vh]

Basically creative people are 'seers', shamans, and magicians. Magic is real and these people are the torchbearers of it. That's why we love them.

[@cjdigital968]

STEVE! I swear it’s like you know me! I’m going on a walk every morning as the sun rises and listen to one of your podcasts each day. These podcast open doors I never explored before and provide motivation that not even HUEL salted caramel can give you 😆 Keep being you and continue growing this incredible podcast! Thank you.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Love this! Thank you Christopher

[@liamgreatrex4482]

Same, I do this also; nothing makes me smile more than hearing “I hope nobodies listening but if you are, then keep this to yourself” love Steven!!

[@dana.j9062]

Russell Howard is an amazing intelligent genuine Man!! I have been a fan of Russell for over decades!!

[@fionahazlitt1313]

It is very refreshing to see this side of Russell. I remember my sister going to one of his first shows where tickets were £10 and it was meet and greet, she came back saying how funny and humble he was. Now every can see both sides to him. Gives a rich honesty to his comedy shows. Would love to see this side of more comedians in the future.

[@alicequayle4625]

Russell seems genuinely good hearted.

[@wendyg7462]

I'm seeing Russell this summer for the fourth time he makes me laugh so much, he's such a gentleman, thanks for this podcast it's made my day 😊

[@bluemoyie8618]

Well done, thanks for that, I really enjoy Russell Howard ! One of the best interviews I've ever seen, and so amazing how Russell Howard made himself so known. Oh, and that quote came from T.E. Lawrence , "All men dream, but not all men dream equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible."

[@equalisationmusic]

I've finally subscribed! You've got a great way of bringing out the best in your guests and showing the human side behind their fame or success. As a big admirer of Russell's comedy I didn't want this one to end. Thanks

[@shikastormcrow6224]

*"...I do it so that no one else has to."* So deeply moving that statement. I've heard that before by others who do such painful jobs, and it's just incredible the fact that there are such beautiful souls out there who care enough for everyone to do the hardest jobs. Also hearing about dying from heartbreak, I feel like that can defo happen, but it's one of those things that comes down to belief in the end. Russel's nan/family sound adorably amazing! Thank you for sharing this Russel and Steve

[@Alan_Duval]

I can relate to what you were saying about your parents separating, Steven. Mine finally separated when I was 14. They sat my sister and I down, with very solemn faces and told us they were separating. My exact response was, 'It's about fucking time.'

[@dr.vincewong]

I grew up watching Russell on Mock the Week. Really enjoyed hearing his perspective on mental health and training his brain as a comedian! Thanks for sharing

[@ripdbtpoo1441]

Who's the other bloke? - the one who isn't R.H., - who's stopped dying his hair,l see,no jokers please...

[@sbIvanov]

Quotes and notes from the podcast: "Laughter is the lubricant that makes life livable" "Comedy is addictive but pleasurable" "Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake up in the day to find it was vanity, but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible" "The best of you is done, bit by bit" or as we say in Bulgaria "Brick by brick, you can build a house"

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Appreciate you Simeon

[@sbIvanov]

@@TheDiaryOfACEO It is my pleasure, Steven! For some reason, we do have a similar choice of podcasts, I'd recommend you check out those two: ThatChapter and GarryTan Also, if you ever want to go to a comedy show, the club he mentioned "Top Secret Comedy Club" is amazing and always have great shows!

[@katherinewheatcroft3617]

Dear Steven. You tickle my sense of humour. You often say you've been doing something for years and years and years. You've worked really hard, gained a lot of experience but you are so young 😆 (said by a person of no age whose mother is older than our late Queen!) Your calm approach to interviewing and listening to others makes you a delight to watch. You carefully select people who give us positive messages. Most sincerely: Thank you

[@daniellameleki3932]

That quote by T.E. Lawrence has been in my notes app for yearsssss, I was so shocked hearing Russell’s father resonated with it as well! A million thank you’s for your content Steven, looking forward to next week❣️

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

🙏🏽 thank you for watching

[@danofficial117]

I love how comedians come on the podcast and be totally serious , gives you a great insight

[@dswain1981]

The variety of guests is superb and yet again I've been hooked into an interview with someone I initially wasn't drawn to. You bring out the best in people and take them to such deep conversations. Top work. 👏🏻

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Thank you David, so glad I’m able to provide these interviews to you all

[@jfoiju]

I love his relaxed attitude about talking about therapy. Makes it so logical, need that bit of help, go get it

[@lukeh8201]

Russell is really good at interviewing the interviewer. I enjoyed that. Set up for the week perfectly. Have a lovely week all!

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

🙌🏽 great to hear luke

[@bumbaaclaaat2866]

Wow, your interviews with Jimmy Carr and now Russel have shown me a whole different side to people I thought I understood , funny how they are both comedians , comedy must be some kind of coping mechanisms for a lot of these comedians, bottom line I loves this and love your podcast in general . You are such a impressive and inspirational person ,Steven well done

[@jackwhitbread4583]

Russell is one of Jimmy's best friends, shouldn't come as that much of a surprise how different they are off stage. Many have said what a kind and generous man both Russell and Jimmy are. I can name very few comedians who are really anything like the persona they portray while on stage

[@WilliamJonesChess]

The Coffin Club 1:21:55 Dying is really expensive 1:22:45 How do you do this? So then no one else has to. It was so beautiful. I can tell this story through stand-up with her.

[@shannon150]

Love Russell Howard. Amazing comedian and he’s so real!

[@guntersg]

This is the first of your interviews I've watched and your calming style is very relaxing for the viewer and, I'm sure, for the person you're interviewing. I look forward to watching your other videos on this channel. Russell is a legend..he always comes across as a genuinely good man and this just helped confirm it. He comes across exactly as when you see him at a live show. This is going to sound trite, but the one observation I had was that when the camera slides left and right to focus on the 2 people in the room, one person ends up looking larger than the other... not sure if this is some kind of fish-eye lens issue, but just thought I'd put it out there - apologies if I sound pedantic. Overall, a superb watch...it's no wonder you're doing so well :)

[@muddyw4ter]

literally in love with russell

[@etch-a-sketch]

A lovely interview. LOVE Russell.

[@jaymakutsa]

“reality is always auditioning to find its way into your set” 🎯 as a musician this hit lmao

[@leonbrooks2107]

Pretty sure I read somewhere that Russell Howard and Jimmy Carr are really good friends IRL. After hearing both talk on your show I can see why that may be true.

[@shanice_smith]

Absolutely love Russell and it's great to see this honest more vulnerable side of him, love the podcast!

[@JoJo_GSD]

Mr Howard , thank you for sharing your life journey & sharing about your family. 🤗 Mr Bartlett, an incredible podcast, I thank you & your team so much. Wishing everyone a wonderful week 🤗👍

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

As always, thank you jo jo😊

[@Zed-x-]

You have such a talent for getting people to be comfortable and be there true selfs . I have only watched this and Jimmy Car episode so far but so inspiring! You ask the questions people want to know and such a feel good aspect 🥰

[@SRCreativeStudios]

These videos are so inspiring. I think it's always beautiful and insightful when a high profile achiever opens up like this and makes us all realise we have very similar fears and insecurities that can be overcome. Thank you Steve!

[@googull4778]

I like this podcast more and more every time I listen. I didn’t think I could relate that much to you until you mentioned that at age 7 your father pulled you aside and told you the marriage is over and they’re getting a divorce, and never did. Same exact age and same exact talk. And their marriage held but it was a psychological disaster for everyone. It pretty much is the root of many problems my sisters and I have.

[@jane-gz1oo]

Love Russell even more now........my take is that comedians are actually some of the most insightful people in the world because they shed light and perspective that takes us out of this myopic drama for a brief moment into the realisation that we are ONE and Life is just a funny bitter sweet love story but the ending is bliss

[@elainecheckley]

Thank you for this amazaing interiew with Russell!!! I *LOVE* Russell and think is is THE BEST comedian in the world today. It was nice to see the intelligence and depth Russell has in his heart. His shows always crack me up - beautiful moments!!

[@originalindiechick7999]

Amazing podcast! Russell is just as lovely in this conversation as he is on stage ❤ Really intelligent and thoughtful chat. I can relate to the pressure of performing (the before and after is so stressful, full of self-doubt and worry) but the ‘doing’ is a high like no other & being in that moment is one of the best places to be. X

[@DancesWithKitties]

God I love this guy, Russell gives me so much of me, my family, and perspective. He’s relatable and inspiring wrapped up in a mother’s embrace. ❤🤗 PS. I’d love to hear more of his life, like the goofy and loving stories that are told by family after one dies. I’ve found the loss of my loved ones’ points of view when we wait until that happens.

[@TheHugheskel]

Such a beautiful interview and captivating, I would like to say a special thank you to Russell, always been a fan, when my dog died I struggled to find joy in anything but watching you was a safe space and distraction from the grief, thank you for being you. Much love 💛

[@menfirst.1802]

These are amazing I’m a up and comedian have done 8 gigs and have so much respect for Russell knowing how hard it is.

[@michael5089]

Never listened to his stand up but I'll give him a go as I thought this interview was really eye opening and he comes across as a lovely guy💙

[@philholdsworth8280]

He's essentially pretty shit.

[@heartshapedisle]

You are in for a long laugh. A comedian with real heart.

[@craighughes536]

By far my new favourite channel... Amazing insights to the British TV personalities I grew up with and how they got where they are....

[@rachaelmjennings]

Loved this one! Made me smile and appreciate where I've been and where I am. What a gem of a conversation! Thanks Steven

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Great to hear Rachael! 🙌🏽

[@tobydstreet]

Loving these comic interviews brother… they’re truly on the front line, the edge of reality and their insights into how to be present with a whole lot of energy and kinda, in the moment alchemy of reality, is invaluable! Trust you’re incredible 💫

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

🙏🏽 thank you Toby

[@RetroBreak]

Just finished watching the latest Russel Howard hour episode then came over to watch this, really fascinating talk!

[@LettyMaria1]

Hello everyone!Today I'm in the Gran Canaries. I have come away for a four day break. The first one in three years. It's Monday morning the best day of the week. All your podcast make me think about my life therefore this isnt an exception. I loved hearing about his family. I have always thought making people laugh is a gift you are given. I love seeing people laugh especially if they have found something funny about what I have said. I have never thought why that makes me feel happy but it does. When my students come to my private evening classes I like to sprinkle our time together with short stories which with out realising it makes them smile or even laugh. Another thing I liked today was when he boomeranged some questions back to you. Well all the best. See you next week.

[@absta100]

love Russell so much seen him live as well as Jimmy Carr a few times. They are both great 🙏🏻🪄💣🎵🙌🏼🎷💯😎⭐️ Russell Brand would interesting Steven 🙌🏼 they are all geniuses great wordsmiths and made me howl with laughter many times

[@paulbradbury7166]

Hi Stephan. I have only come across your channel. This is the second interview I have watched of yours's. I just want to say thank you. You really come across as a warm human being that has the ability to calm and open other humans doors to bring their true selves out of comfort zones through just showing a genuine interest in the person you are ( I was going to say interview but) chatting to.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Really appreciate this, thank you 🙏🏽

[@emmacol3525]

This is the The BEST podcast I've chosen to listen too not all guests are my taste, but I have seen a change in how I see the different people and realise how much the tv and media can affect your opinion of people .

[@thejanetflights7396]

Watching this at 59:55 and I agree I am listening while I go about my life and honestly your conversation has been exponentially increasing my internal ah-ha moments...loving this convo, thank you🙏

[@robertsmme]

Before you got to the part about Russell writing a book, I was so struck by how eloquent and lucid he is when telling stories. I am almost certain he could do it. Also, that strange hesitation when the subject of therapy came up was priceless. Therapy is strange, and yet so important. Well done Russell for admitting to it even though you were not comfortable.

[@ryrythomas2788]

Seriously amazing interview/podcast. Made me think about things in a different way. Class!

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

🙌🏽 appreciate it, thanks mate

[@bindibee]

Humour is the ultimate intelligence. Guys like Russell are just really impressive! Loved the episode. Thankyou.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

🙏🏽thank you for watching

[@katiekarakondis3348]

Only highly intelligent people have humour.

[@theemarydee1610]

A brilliant podcast! I’m grateful to watch it on KZbin

[@Tom_murray89]

These podcasts are really helping me find myself

[@grooveshackrecords]

Absolutely loved this. Love Russel's stand up comedy, this podcast was a breath of fresh air. I love how he thinks

[@solomonbooth63]

I resignate with him. I’m sure many do. I’m no comedic genius. However making people laugh makes me happy it’s a euphoria. What a humble guy he is.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

He’s great, thanks for watching 🙏🏽

[@EloiseButler]

Can’t wait to see the live show in Glasgow. What a great episode! I don’t usually notice but today when the table was touched or tapped I could hear it every time

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Amazing! See you there Eloise

[@shoddypockets9666]

The thing that Russell has in common with Billy Connolly is that you feel his entire heart and self from the stage. They could talk about golf (I hate golf) and I'd be gripped. Because I just want to spend, time in their world with them x

[@feralbluee]

You said this so perfectly - my feelings exactly! ( i also felt that way about Mitch and Richard Pryor - their emotions and my response to them was deep. and they were so hilarious! miss them both.) 🌷🌱

[@ghomerhust]

so many comics use things like anxiety to fuel their comedy. trying to use humor to break through or mask the pain theyve been through or are dealing with. we see it over and over

[@anezkamacmanus7191]

Loved it thank you both ❤ and the team 😊

[@petergrant7767]

Bring out the best of your guests give us an insight we wouldn't have thankyou really enjoyed this today

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Glad you enjoyed it Peter 🙌🏽

[@lemonsumo2153]

I relate to Russell with his lowest moment because my Uncle and my Grandad died within a week of each other and it crushed me. So it was interesting to hear from someone i feel like i know, to hear they been though something similar. love this podcast.

[@alicelovescats888]

Russell Howard you are definitely captivating when you tell stories

[@shaunloynds5317]

Best thing about Steven is that he doesn't interrupt his guests. Jonathon Ross and others just can't shut up and ruin what could be great interviews.

[@SeyfShares]

“6 months of tension, followed by joy that lasts throughout until after the Tour… and then returning to Fear” This was the most refreshing lesson to understand that the cycle of fear returning to your emotive palette will always be present. However the Fear to Excitement conversion is the more important process machine that requires an understanding of your purpose and going through those 6+ months of tension. Super insightful yet again… thank you Steven for yet another awesome conversation. 🙏🏽 P.s Each foreword promise of your episode being the one that sticks with you, or the most impactful are actually pretty underrated introductions to these episodes. Looking forward to Jordan B. Peterson EP.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Thank you 🙏🏽

[@rubygolddog]

My favourite part of the week! Managed to bag front row seats to see you at the Newcastle live show in March! Can’t wait😁

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

🙏🏽 amazing thank you 🙏🏽 see you there, I can’t wait either!

[@Gladyscakekitchen]

Steve and Team Good morning!! I love Russel Howard, saw him twice in a year at 02 and Manchester, he is really funny!!

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Morning! He’s funny and such a great guy

[@willhobbs6695]

I adore Russel Howard

[@teddibear1153]

Wonderful interview, thank you

[@liam77877]

Amazing as usual! Can’t wait for the Ben Francis one, my two Idols in one place.

[@michaelbrindley3487]

can’t believe he’s not on 100k yet. i’ve been seeing his content reposted everywhere but finally gave him a real listen. such a great podcast,hopefully make it on there one say haha.

[@jgpatterson38]

Great Mitch impression,love you Howard

[@richardkovanda7578]

Cheers for upload, again truly inspiring discussion!

[@abovetheroses-3799]

“Lived by F*ing Love Joy” I’m a Joy and have my Love Joy Lads - Best Life Ever - Funniest Life Ever. Good to hear from a kindred spirit.

[@do6604]

My word, what a fantastic edition.

[@johammond4439]

Congrats on your 1M subscriptions the podcasts are inspirational

[@TheDanzilla7]

I'm so glad I found your channel. You are an incredible interviewer with some fantastic guests. Thank you.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Thank you 🙏🏽 really appreciate the kind words x

[@ethanhoijord1452]

Beautiful stuff this. I'm a massive football fan so I'd only watch your shows with footballers like the one with Patrice Evra etc but I stayed up last night listening to two and I'll listen to this today.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

thank you ethan 🙌🏽

[@mandyfitchett9155]

Loved this so much

[@2514ben88]

amazing interview thank you very much love your stuff Russ and your wonky eye 😂👍

[@bhiveliveglobal]

If comedians have a brain that takes them out of reality and off to a funny place to create. Is it not the same for entrepreneurs that they see a challenge and go off to a problem solving realm? So thought provoking with great insight as always.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

🙌🏽

[@joshuataylor1570]

this could be the best podcast out there

[@livb6945]

Haven't even watched yet but I will not be surprised. I wasn't surprised by Jimmy one bit and these two are friends, so... All I can say is, good choice

[@adamparsons9507]

Your guests are EPIC Steven.

[@tr9092]

Brilliant. Keep them coming.

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Thank you 🙏🏽

[@tr9092]

@@TheDiaryOfACEO Absolutely. I've only listened to the two comics but now I've got myself a new hobby to go back and listen to all the other guests. Love your interview style.