”Behind the Mask: Aaron Gold’s Journey of Comedy and Candidness”

🎙️In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks is joined by the ever-entertaining Aaron Gold. Together, they navigate through life's quirks, blending humor with thoughtful insights into authenticity, identity, and creative pursuits. As they touch upon the little nuances of everyday life, from food preferences to the essence of tomatoes, listeners are in for a unique blend of laughter and enlightenment. 

Join Jay Hicks and Aaron Gold in a delightful blend of comedy and candid conversation. From delving into the very nature of tomatoes to exploring the challenges of identity and creative endeavors, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotions. Aaron, with his lively spirit, shares insights into his projects, including the anticipated film "The Mask Gone Viral." Meanwhile, Jay, with his unique veteran perspective, adds depth to the discussions, emphasizing the podcast's core theme of tragedy and triumph. Dive into an episode filled with hearty laughs, poignant moments, and profound reflections. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and grow the tree of knowledge one chuckle at a time. 😂🤔💭

Key Takeaways:

😊 Graphic Tees and Fashion Quirks: An engaging discussion about graphic tees, personal preferences, and the significance these shirts have in Jay's life.

😁 Batman, Modern Mythology, and ADHD: A light-hearted chat about Batman's probable scent, the significance of modern myths, and the quirks of conversing when both parties have ADHD. 

🎭 Art, Marketing, and Authenticity: Delving deep into the interplay between genuine creativity and the role of marketing, with insights into the challenges and rewards of being authentic in the arts. 

🌈 LGBTQ+ Compliments and Representation: An honest conversation on the genuine nature of compliments from LGBTQ+ friends, diverse representation in the arts, and the power of authentic storytelling.

🎥 Anticipation for "The Mask Gone Viral": Aaron shares his excitement and aspirations for his film project, emphasizing the importance of passion and authenticity in realizing a creative vision.

😄 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action: Wrapping up the episode with an open invite for future chats, a call for embracing authenticity, and the podcast's signature sign-off – be cool and keep learning.

😂 Food Fancies: Grilled Cheese & Tomatoes: A humorous debate on grilled cheese cravings and a playful discussion on the divisive nature of tomatoes.

Quotes: 

🤣 "I've got Chris Pratt vibes in a jewy body and the energy of a very happy dog that doesn't realize how big he is." - Aaron Gold

🌌 "Fear the unknown and change involves a, a leaping into the unknown." - Aaron Gold

🎨 "When it comes to making art reliably and consistently, the older I get, the more I realize how much of that is marketing." - Aaron Gold

💡"Passion follows passion, authenticity follows authenticity. Everything else is just people trying to sell somebody else's creativity. If you're trying to sell somebody else's art and you don't believe in it, then you're just hacking stuff out." - Jay

🎥 "I feel like a lot of creators cut their dreams short because of funding when if they really just put the pedal to the metal, the funds will show up because they'll see how good it is." - Jay

❤️ "I love gay compliments. Like those are the best, they're the most flattering. Like, 'cause they mean it, and they always make you smile." - Jay

Guest Bio:

Aaron Gold, with his infectious humor and genuine personality, is a beacon in the comedy and arts community. Known for his involvement with "The Mask Gone Viral," Aaron's narratives on the podcast delve deep into themes of authenticity, creativity, and the complexities of human experience.

But beyond the laughter and jests, Aaron's journey is deeply intertwined with a personal mission. Tired of the silence surrounding discussions about his depression and anxiety, Aaron took matters into his own hands by founding "You Are Not Alone: An Uplifting Show About Depression" in 2014. Through this initiative, Aaron has united improvisers and artists who face the day-to-day battles of mental illness. By weaving together the potent mediums of poetry, stand-up, essays, and improvisation, "You Are Not Alone" delivers deeply personal experiences, bringing to light the power of laughter as a healing tool. This unique show, in partnership with NAMI-NYC, spreads awareness, corrects misconceptions about depression, and fosters an entertaining, fun, and safe space for all involved. Aaron Gold's vision and work with "You Are Not Alone" stands as a testament to his dedication in ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles.

CTA for Show:

🎙️🚀 Dive deep into the human experience with The Tragedy Academy Podcast! Hosted by Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco, each episode unravels stories of real people navigating the complexities of tragedy and triumph. With two decades of experience, our hosts bring a unique lens to explore life's challenges. So why wait? 🤔 Subscribe now, leave a glowing review, and share this episode with friends who could use a dose of humor, insight, and inspiration. Remember, together we grow the tree of knowledge. 🌳💡 Be cool and keep learning! 🤓🌟

CTA for Guest:

🌌 Curious to dive deeper into the mind of Aaron Gold? Whether it's his comedic takes or his passionate drive to address mental health through "You Are Not Alone," Aaron brings a fresh and authentic voice to every conversation. 🔍 Discover more about him, his projects, and his journey! Visit his website, give him a follow on social media, and don't miss out on "The Mask Gone Viral." 🎭✨ His insights, experiences, and dedication to breaking taboos around mental health are nothing short of inspirational. Dive in and get inspired! 🚀🔗

Conclusion:

🎧 That's a wrap for this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the journey of humor, enlightenment, and powerful insights. As always, our episodes aim to bridge societal divides, spark thought, and inspire growth. So, mark your calendars and join us next week for another deep dive into stories of tragedy, triumph, and the human spirit. And in the words of our hosts: Be cool and keep learning! 🌍❤️📚

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Show and host information:

The Tragedy Academy Podcast is a show that explores the human experience through the lens of tragedy and triumph. We aim to help listeners grow and thrive by sharing stories of real people who have experienced adversity and success.

Hosted by Jay Hicks, a veteran, music producer, and multimedia artist, along with co-host Gary DeFranco, an Emmy-nominated executive producer with 20 years of experience producing non-scripted television, The Tragedy Academy Podcast provides a unique perspective on life's challenges and how to overcome them.

Our guests come from all walks of life and share their stories of struggle and triumph. We believe that our past does not define our future and that living authentically and purposefully is the key to a fulfilling life.

Through candid and humorous discussions, we explore societal divides and bridge gaps in understanding. We believe that laughter is the best fertilizer for the tree of knowledge, and that's why we bring you stories that will make you think, laugh, and inspire you to be a better person.

The Tragedy Academy Podcast is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple, Spotify, and Google. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of humor and enlightenment as we strive to grow the tree of knowledge together. 

Be cool and keep learning.

Jay Hicks

Host / Owner

Florida native Jay Hicks is a veteran, music producer, podcaster, graphic designer, and the owner and creative mind behind The Tragedy Academy Podcast. Jay has held many careers, from digging septic drain fields to being a Financial Services Solution Architect Manager for one of the nation's largest consulting firms. Jay has experience producing and engineering podcasts, voice-overs, promotional videos, and advertisements.

Why did Jay start the show?

I lived most of my life imprisoned in my mind, a slave to past experiences, choices, and anxiety over the future. Seemingly random memories and worries trapped me: Will I be successful? Am I successful enough? Does she love me? Will people admire me? Do people hate me? Am I the way that I am because someone made me this way? Someone told me I'm no good. Does that mean it is true? I experienced shame over past bad decisions or was overly prideful with no need. The list of mental agonies is endless.

Looking at this box created around my life, I can see that I had succumbed to an onslaught of past and present thoughts. I had forgotten entirely about NOW. I wasn't grateful for today, the moment, family, friends, or existence itself. I will not break down my construct and inner demons, but I want to give some insight and share my thoughts on what I believe is missing from humankind today.

I never learned how to be thankful and present now. I was taught to focus on the perceived problems from my past experiences or my need to prove something to imaginary adversaries. For myself, it has been a journey to this point - not good, not bad, just experiences as they all define who I am today. Without them, I would not see this need to be grateful in my own life. This realization is what drives my work, my creativity, and my mission.

Gary DeFranco

COHOST

Cleveland native Gary DeFranco is the Emmy-nominated Executive Producer of UFC's The Ultimate Fighter and Discovery Channel's Street Outlaws and has produced over 500 television episodes for major networks (ESPN, Fox, Discovery Channel, Playboy TV, Spike TV, Bravo, Travel Channel). DeFranco is a recording artist, music producer, podcaster, graphic designer, and the owner and creative mind behind Max Glow Media/Design/Records. Gary has 20 years of experience producing non-scripted television, feature-length documentaries, music videos, and commercials. As the producer of shows like The Ultimate Fighter, Street Outlaws, Playboy Shoot Out, and UFC Next Level, DeFranco has seen it all and has brought that wealth of knowledge to The Tragedy Academy.