David's Saturday Night Sit Back

Sobriety, Comedy, and Finding Yourself: Joe McNamara’s Journey

David AuClair Episode 88

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In this episode of David’s Saturday Night Sit Back, we’re thrilled to have Joe McNamara, a rising stand-up comedian based in Austin, TX, on the show. Joe’s journey is one of transformation—from studying Business Management at Texas State University San Marcos and joining Theta Lambda Kappa Sigma, to working in sales and marketing, and now touring the country as a stand-up comedian. With three performances on the popular podcast Kill Tony, Joe has become a well-known figure in the comedy world. In this episode, we cover everything from comedy and sobriety to dating and life in the ever-growing city of Austin.

Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Joe and I talk about how Austin, TX is booming and what makes Joe feel anxious in a fast-growing city.
(15:00) Joe shares his personal story—from college days to his evolution into a touring comedian.
(33:00) We discuss dating strategies and what types of people we’re attracted to. Joe opens up about his journey to sobriety while performing as a stand-up comedian.
(1:03:00) A slightly R-rated story from David (skip ahead if you prefer not to listen!).
(1:08:00) Joe dives into his experience getting back into the dating scene post-sobriety.
(1:21:00) Story time: Our first experiences with drinking and how they shaped us.
(1:30:00) Joe discusses how his identity has evolved since becoming sober, the alter ego effect, and what drives him to succeed. David asks him a series of questions related to agency and self-determination.
(1:46:00) David reads a motivational excerpt about taking action and "doing the thing."
(1:53:00) We wrap up the episode with a powerful visualization exercise. For this part, make sure you're in a distraction-free environment—it’s a transformative few minutes.

Austin comedian Joe McNamara

Stand-up comedy in Austin

Kill Tony comedian Joe McNamara

Comedy and sobriety

Texas State University comedians

Rising comedians in 2024

Life after sobriety in comedy

Austin TX comedy scene

Dating as a sober comedian

Joe McNamara Kendama

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