Meet Jc Currais: Comedian, Actor, Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jc Currais and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jc, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Trying to become a comedian who actually makes money doing comedy is a full time gig because being funny is just the prerequisite for all of it to work. Reaching out to clubs and convincing them to book you and assembling a travel schedule that doesn’t have you driving in a snow storm from Dubuque, IA to Kennesaw, MI. It’s all you when you’re starting. The reaI reason I started my company was simply my manager saying, “You won’t pay as much taxes if you become a business.” And boom SMALL BUSINESS OWNER.   

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m lucky enough to have turned being an idiot into a profession. Comedy is my addiction. There’s nothing like making a room full of people laugh and once you achieve it, you’re chasing that moment for the rest of your life. 12 years ago, on I was in the south, driving my 1996 Dodge Neon from bars to bowling alleys to legion halls just trying to make enough to pay rent. And I loved it. I think “taking the leap” is what sets apart most entertainers and creators. Hunter S. Thompson had a cool quote about it. “Who is the happier man, he who has braved the storm of life and lived, or he who has stayed securely on shore and merely existed?” I think what sets me apart is, I went for it and I got lucky. I’m confident in my talents and my work ethic. Still, to think my career has been anything other than a cosmic roll of the roulette wheel that hit, would be arrogant. Stand up comedy will always be my love. But, it’s afforded me the opportunity to do other things like acting and writing. I’m just a goofy weirdo who stumbled into the best job in the world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a dive bar guy. My buddies Jeff Dye and Randy Valerio showed me this little spot that is legitimately a couple blocks from my house, The Chimneysweep. Without those guys I never would’ve found this place. It’s a hole in the wall tucked into the back of a parking lot. It’s almost hidden, there’s a huge hedge fence in front of the building and from the outside it looks closed. Honestly, I’m probably ruining the vibe of the place by sending people there. It’s dark, the drinks are strong, the bartenders are fun. If you’re ever in Sherman Oaks pop in for a shot.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom. She’s always had my back and supported me through a long journey to get to this point. She’s the strongest person I know and when my father passed away over a decade ago she kept our family from falling apart. The reason I work so hard is to make her proud and to be there for her when she decides to retire. Also I have to shout out my manager Mohammed Ali. My whole life changed when he took a shot on me and guided my career to a place I always wanted it to be. His faith in my talent is a driving force for keeping me focused on my future goals. He will always be part of my family.

Instagram: Jccomedian
Twitter: Jcstandup
Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/user/jcurrais
Other: Comedy Central set https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HptzuoplctA