Nasser Al Rayess: HE SKIPPED THE 10-YEAR GRIND?! The Stand-Up “Cheat Code” Exposed | DSH #1598

Discover how Nasser Al-Rayess used social media to fast-track his comedy career—from school talent shows to sold-out tours! In this episode of Digital Social Hour, Nasser shares his journey from performing Gabriel Iglesias sets as a kid to becoming a full-time comedian. He breaks down how he leveraged social media to build an audience, transitioned from public speaking to stand-up, and put in the reps required to master his craft.

With insights on blending comedy, culture, and business strategy, Nasser offers a refreshing perspective on breaking into the comedy industry in the digital age.

💥 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
👉 The “Comedy Cheat Code” that accelerates growth (reps, film review, iteration)
👉 Why social media gives modern comedians a MASSIVE head start
👉 How to turn 5–10 minute open-mic reps into 45-minute headline-ready sets faster
👉 The power of pausing, emphasis & micro-delivery changes that transform jokes
👉 How he used Dubai stages + content to build demand before clubs cared
👉 Why traditional comics hate the new path — and why it works
👉 How to convert online followers into REAL ticket sales
👉 The mindset, business strategy & discipline behind scaling a comedy career

CHAPTERS
00:00 – Developing Stage Presence Tips
00:34 – Video Introduction
01:36 – Jeremy Lin's Impact
05:45 – New York Knicks Insights
10:36 – Quince Overview
11:26 – Journey into Comedy
13:25 – Making It as a Comedian
16:11 – Planning Your Comedy Set
17:20 – Importance of Pausing in Performance
19:07 – Constant Improvement in Comedy
20:48 – Betting on Yourself in Comedy
21:40 – Nemo’s First Job Experience
24:39 – Starting Comedy in Dubai
25:21 – Influential Comedians for Nemo
27:48 – Dealing with Hecklers
29:47 – Understanding Your Audience
31:06 – Role of Social Media in Comedy
34:31 – Best Cities for Comedy Performances
40:40 – Evaluating Business School Value
41:30 – Cost of Business School Experience
43:29 – Kobe's All-Time Ranking Discussion
45:47 – Video Outro

APPLY OR CONNECT
Apply to be on the podcast: https://www.digitalsocialhour.com/application
Business inquiries / sponsors:jenna@digitalsocialhour.com

GUEST:
Nasser Al Rayess: https://www.instagram.com/

SPONSORS:
QUINCE: https://quince.com/ds
THERASAGE: https://therasage.com/

LISTEN ON
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-social-hour/id1676846015
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXarRlI8Hc0GtTn759
Sean Kelly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmikekelly/

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DISCLAIMER
The views and opinions expressed by guests on Digital Social Hour are solely those of the individuals appearing on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, Sean Kelly, or the Digital Social Hour team.

While we encourage open and honest discussions, Sean Kelly is not legally responsible for any statements, claims, or opinions made by guests during the show.

Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and to seek professional advice where appropriate. Content on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, financial, or professional advice.

We strive to present accurate and reliable information; however, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or accuracy. The views expressed are solely those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent those of the producers or affiliates of this program.

🔑 SEO KEYWORDS
stand-up comedy tips, comedy cheat code, social media to stand-up, how to write jokes, crowd work, comedy timing, WME comedian, Dubai comedy scene, going viral to touring, TikTok comedian, new comedy blueprint, how to get funnier on stage, delivery & pauses, filming sets, selling out comedy shows, comedy business strategy, comedy journey, viral comedian interview, quitting corporate for comedy

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