The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk We are hosting a workshop on developing YOUR personal excellence as a leader.  For details and availability, go to RyanHawk.me  #267: Louie Anderson - How To Crush It on Stage From One Of The Greatest Stand-Up Comedians of All Time Show Notes: Louie's approach to stand up comedy -- It appears as if he is just "riffing off the cuff," however it is highly structured and prepared The pain of growing up with an alcoholic dad and how that fueled him as a professional This helps him pull from any of it at anytimeCreating a catalog of material It takes years to develop "I'm in complete control."  That gives Louie the ability to handle a heckler in the crowd or go with a comment and tell an additional joke Going on Johnny Carson or Conan "They don't step on your lines, but they are prepared for where the conversation is going to go." "Just like you, I've worked hard to create freedom with my work."  Sustaining excellence: "Be who you are" Ask yourself, "Does this mean something to you?  If it doesn't mean something to you, why would it mean anything to someone else?" Confidence Nervous before a performance? "It depends on the event and how much importance I put on it." -- Saturday Night Live was a nerve racking experience Advice to keynote speakers? Be prepared Know your message Surprise the audience Piggy back on a great introduction -- Listen to the room prior to your time on stage "I'm always tilling the ground for comedy bits." Storytelling: "Tell them something they don't know.  Humanize the story.  Give a piece of yourself.  Don't lecture." How did he get his start as a comedian? "A dare.  I was a social worker and went up on stage for an open mic night and it went great." "I volunteered to be the emcee for experience." "Don't be afraid of trying new things" The importance of "getting the reps:" "I did seven nights a week, four shows per night.  I was creating who I was." "We don't see all the work that goes into being great on stage.  It takes years and years of work." "You need good friends who will tell you the truth." His mom's best advice: "Be nice to people.  You never know what they're going through." Why joining The Learning Leader Circle is a good idea Use the "Get To Know You Document" Social Media: Follow Louie on Twitter: @LouieAnderson Read: Hey Mom Connect with me on LinkedIn Join our Facebook Group: The Learning Leader Community To Follow Me on Twitter: @RyanHawk12