Roots of Comedy with Jesus Trejo

Get ready for Vanessa Gonzalez, headlining with humor and nerve in her hometown. The nerves fuel her fire as she jumps into the spotlight, cracking jokes about exes, customs, and border life, all with a Laredo flair that keeps the crowd roaring.

Jesus Trejo follows Austin-based rising comedian Vanessa Gonzalez on a Texan adventure back to her hometown of Laredo. Vanessa shares the humor of her childhood as the daughter of first-generation, Mexican American border patrol agents.

Vanessa Gonzalez discusses her early stand-up material, rooted in her family dynamics and upbringing. She humorously recounts her mother's penchant for sending religious memes and reflects on how her mom and grandma shaped her comedic style. Vanessa shares her nervousness about performing a homecoming show in Laredo, where she plans to challenge stereotypes about immigrant stories with humor.

Jesus Trejo and Ali Sultan explore the Minneapolis comedy scene's diversity and supportive environment. They highlight its advantages, such as ample opportunities for stage time and a tight-knit community that fosters growth and collaboration. The discussion underscores the importance of community in the comedian's journey and the value of learning from others in the industry.

In Minneapolis, Jesus Trejo meets Yemeni comedian Ali Sultan. Ali opens up about his mental health struggles, weaving humor and vulnerability into a narrative of resilience and self-discovery, highlighting how comedy has helped his well-being.

Jesus Trejo and Ali Sultan share their journeys with anxiety and therapy, highlighting the significance of professional support. They delve into their immigrant upbringings and the weight of expectations for success. Despite facing cultural taboos, they turn to comedy as a means to reinterpret their traumas, empowering themselves to shape their own stories.