Alicia Dattner: Bring Humor to Your Talks

Alicia Dattner is a Comedian based in Oakland, CA. Alicia started dreaming of being a comedian at the age of 8, and “wasted” 10 years “growing up” before she finally started performing at 18. She graduated from Hampshire College with a degree in stand-up comedy–yes, comedy. Alicia has received numerous awards and she has appeared on NPR, The Wall Street Journal, San Francisco Examiner, San Francisco Chronicle, Integral Yoga Magazine, The Mindful Word, Awaken.com, Taoish.com, and more. She incorporates all her experience into her one-on-one coaching process and workshops. Her stage fright moment It happens sometimes. “Stage fright is an important sign that we care about something, it’s an exciting moment.” The ultimate thing speakers should learn from comedians Really connect with what you’re speaking about. Comedians’ main skill is being present and speaking what’s here now. Paula Poundstone is a brilliant example as she feels what’s happening and speaks to it. If you can attune to the audience and the moment, the power of the speech will magnify exponentially. The biggest obstacle to be funny When we shut ourselves down and don’t connect, or try to avoid doing or feeling something. But ultimately Alicia believes that “trying to be funny” is the biggest obstacle to being funny. Spontaneity is the best. Everybody can become funnier and you can bring humor to your talks. Related: “Never too old to learn something new” by Julie Kertesz Favorite quotation “How we spend our days is how we spend our lives .” — Annie Dillard Recommended book The Comedy Bible by Judy Carter Routine to Shine A Yoga Laughter exercise. Stand up in a power pose, with arms high, your chin up and your face to the sky. Let out some laughter, keep laughing until it feels real. Do it for 5 minutes in the morning, every day. Links Alicia Dattner Making Light Comedy Festival   P.S. If you liked this episode, you might enjoy subscribing to our mailing list. Also,