Bob Sumner: Creating Def Comedy Jam and Advice to Excel in Your Creative Journey

Creative Breakthrough

Announcements

We are trending in Nigeria! That makes 16 countries around the world. I am so grateful for you all for tuning in week after week!

Check out my new website redesign at www.funnybrowngirl.com

While you’re there, take the podcast quiz to find which episode is for you!

Also sign up for my email list for bi-weekly resources and opportunities

Lastly, check out our Facebook Group – Creative Breakthrough Community

This season, we have amazing line-up of guests! I’ll be chatting with:

Actor on Tyler Perry’s BET hit show Ruthless and Perfect Pickup Jaime Callica

Chef Saqib Keval whose restaurant Masala y Maiz has been named One of the World’s Greatest Places by Time Magazine

Nelu Handa who is a writer and actor on the hit Netflix show Working Moms

Host of MSNBC Ali Velshi

And this week - Co-founder of Def Comedy Jam Bob Sumner

Who is Bob Sumner

Bob is best known as the co-creator of HBO’s Russell Simmon’s Def Comedy Jam, a recognized force in the world of comedy and the man behind most comedy legends. With never 25 years of experience, Bob has discovered many of the top gifted comedians that have graced the stages and big screens around the world, including Kevin Hart, Bill Bellamy, Mike Epps, Dave Chapelle, Sheryl Underwood, Chris Tucker, Cedric The Entertainer, and Bernie Mac. One day, he will add me to this list!

Bob is the executive partner in LaffMobb Enterprises which has produced specials that have aired on Showtime, DirectTV and OnDemand. He is also the executive producer of LaffMobb’s We Got Next and LaffMobb’s LaffTracks.

We recorded this in April 2020 and streamed it live which is why you may notice some technological glitches and long pauses, especially if you are watching this on YouTube. We talked for almost 2 hours, so there will be a part two to this episode.

I had the pleasure of meeting Bob at the American Black Film Festival as part of the Comedy Wings Comedy Competition and I can’t thank him enough for what he’s done for my comedy career. I’m excited to share his story and his creative advice with all of you.

Key Questions answered by Bob Sumner:

• How Bob’s creative journey began
• Why Bob started Def Comedy Jam
• How Bob know if you have it or don’t have it as a comedian
• How Bob stay’s positive and keeps hustling

Bob Sumner Discusses:

• His career journey
• Bob’s advice for comedians and creatives
• Bob’s observations of post-COVID comedy
• How to be successful as a creative
• Next on Bob’s journey

Key Takeaways from Bob Sumner

• Your purpose doesn’t have to be your passion
• Surround yourself with people who inspire you
• Don’t be the guy just trying to get the check
• COVID is just a restart - be ready
• Always be creating

Contact Bob:

Facebook: .com/groups/130660473567

Twitter: twitter.com/bobsumner24

Instagram: Instagram.com/bob.sumner

Who am I?

I’m Shereen Kassam, the host of Creative Breakthrough and internationally touring speaker and comedian. If you are looking for a speaker to talk on topics including creativity, branding, or work life balance, get in touch! I am also open to being guest on your podcast, TV show, or other medium.

Contact me:

Email: hi @ funnybrowngirl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/funnybrowngirl

Twitter: twitter.com/funnybrowngirl

Instagram: Instagram.com/funnybrowngirl