Nikki Howard (@nikki_howard) is a comedian, actress, and content creator based in Los Angeles. Originally from Florida, Nikki moved to LA to pursue her passion for comedy and acting after honing her comedic voice and observational style.Though told she "doesn't look funny," Nikki persisted in developing her own voice and comedic style, embracing absurd and irreverent humor. She began creating original sketch videos with collaborators, eventually starting her own YouTube channel which grew an organic following.Nikki continues to create hilarious videos with comedy partners like Brent Pella on The Brent & Nikki Show, while also co-hosting the podcast Sorry Mom with her friend Kristina Denton. She has amassed a large following on Instagram and other platforms.What Travis and Nikki discussed: How to Develop a Unique Comedic Voice: Nikki Howard explained the importance of developing your own comedic style and voice, rather than trying to fit a mold of what others think is "funny." She focused on observational comedy drawn from her own experiences and perspectives, rather than striving for mass appeal. Why Persistence is Vital for Comedians: Nikki emphasized the need for persistence and resilience in the face of rejection as a comedian. She pushed forward with creating her own content despite being told she "doesn't look funny." Her persistence paid off as her YouTube channel grew an audience organically. The Importance of Making Your Own Opportunities: Rather than wait for roles or auditions, Nikki took control of her career by creating her own comedic content. She discussed the importance of betting on yourself and creating your own opportunities instead of waiting for a big break. How to Balance Improving Your Craft and Making Connections: Nikki and the host discussed the nuances between developing skills ("what you know") and relationships ("who you know"). Nikki highlighted the importance of focusing on improving comedic abilities as well as networking and making connections. Why Human Connections Are Key to Happiness: Nikki emphasized forming genuine human connections as vital for fulfillment, even with a successful career. She discussed making an effort to have new experiences, meet new people, and prioritize relationships despite being introverted. Nikki’s brand of observational humor reflects her unique worldview shaped by her journey from community theater kid to trading the runways of New York for honing her act in LA.Nikki dishes on developing her own voice, betting on herself to create opportunities instead of waiting for a big break, and the importance of bringing levity to the full spectrum of human experiences.You'll hear how she embraced creating original content despite being told she doesn’t “look funny.” Nikki brings plenty of laughs while keeping it real about rejection, relationships, and her introverted nature.If you crave comedy served up authentically with heart, you don't want to miss Nikki Howard on this episode. She's proof rejection and risk-taking on the road less traveled can pave the way for hilarious rewarding success.Special Offer for Travis Makes Friends Listeners:Get 16 free meals with the Hello Fresh discount code hellofresh.com/travisDon’t forget to subscribe to our Youtube Channel, @travismakesfriendsFollow Travis on:IG 👉🏻 instagram.com/travischappellFB 👉🏻 facebook.com/traviscchappellTwitter 👉🏻 twitter.com/traviscchappellPinterest 👉🏻 pinterest.com/travischappellpod Subscribe to Travis Makes Friends on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star rating!Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridgeOur Sponsors:* Check out Kinsta: https://kinsta.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices