2 - Oxford MBA-Consulting-Standup - Papa CJ on Transitioning to and thriving in the world of Stand Up

One might think that the world of stand-up comedy and the corporate milieu would be miles apart! Hear Papa CJ talk about his transition from being a consultant to an award winning stand-up comedian. His show ‘Naked’ talks about all our common vulnerabilities and the ‘brick walls’ we build around ourselves that may prevent us from growing. He tries to reach out to all of us who might be comfortably complacent in our comfort zones.

Son of a tea planter, Papa CJ took the predictable path through school and college. Hear him walk us through his early struggles which led to him manoeuvring into the challenging and non-trivial transition from Oxford, to consulting, to doing 250 stand-up comedy shows in his first 10 months! Look out for tips on leveraging the asset of relationships that we all have.

“If you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat.” Hear how Papa CJ took the plunge into the gruelling yet satisfying world of stand-up comedy. A mix of conviction, grit, pragmatism, sacrifice and passion helped him make this journey. This nugget gives us an insight into planning and being prepared for transitions.

Think you need to know all about a career before you dive right in? Not necessarily! Papa CJ talks about how the world of stand-up was a blank slate for him and all he had was his excitement and eagerness to pursue it. Sometimes all it needs is the drive and the resilience. Hint: Look out for what makes stand-up comedy the one profession where ‘failure is the only way to succeed’ according to Papa CJ.

“Find the balance to feed your stomach and feed your soul”: that’s the mantra for delivering to your potential, according to Papa CJ. In this nugget he talks about the qualities of being a good stand-up comedian and how these requirements actually transcend profession and time. Listen on to find tips to harness the true power of your potential.

In this fast paced, interconnected world around us, we often have less time and space to think quietly and listen to our inner voice. In this nugget, Papa CJ gives tips about preparing for success and how one needs to grow in the dark so as to play to potential.

Why is vulnerability one of the key elements in building any relationship? Why is it especially so important now when our world seems to be awash with picture perfect Facebook posts? Hear Papa CJ tackle this question. Hint: Watch out for an amazing tip about finding that fountain of confidence that we all seek!

A stand-up comedian is also a brand that provides services worldwide. So what can the world of business learn from the world of stand-up comedy? Papa CJ draws parallels between these two seemingly starkly different realms. Watch out for the anecdote on heckling and its comparison with dealing with feedback.

“The cost of our dreams is much lower than we think it is in our heads!” Using this profound thought Papa CJ discusses what business schools don’t teach us. don’t miss the part about the three things that constitute happiness!