This show was not what I anticipated. Rather than spend the evening with the American Comedy and Emmy Award winning comedian, Craig Shoemaker, discussing his stand up, TV, and film career, we spent the time diving deep about behaviors, addiction, recovery, healing through laughter––even when there’s nary a joke to be found––there’s none needed. The mere act of laughing, even forced, is a mood changer, not only for the person guffawing, but for all in their path, as well. We tried it on.

Vanna White, Merv Griffin, Bill Maher, Cheech and Chong, Farrah Fawcett, Eric Roberts, Billy Crystal, Will Miller, Nancy Allen, Rachelle Carson… some exclusive stories, never before shared, divulged… some secrets told, theirs, and his.

We discovered we both spent time in the Laughter Company, near-missing. Craig replacing Eddie Murphy and me, Rosie O’Donnell. Crazy.

Our mutual sobriety and varying opinions, perhaps swayed through open hearts and minds. How we’re dealing with our kids’ drinking (Happy 21st, Samantha, who was having her first legal cocktail, as Craig and I spoke), and Craig’s kids. The Champion gene… how to shine light on the darkness of others, and ourselves.

Letting go, getting grateful, persistence, resilience… The Wizard of Oz as a metaphor of life. Laugh, an acronym - Love. Acceptance, Understanding, Gratitude, Humility… and how to apply each.

Sounds heavy and dry… it t’wasn’t. We laughed like hell. I leave with new tools as a takeaway. I love surprises.

The sound was great thanks to our new Blue Yeti, and Kevin Walt. Oh please Facebook, clear the visual blur. Please.

Craig Shoemaker on Game Changers With Vicki Abelson

Wed, 2/20/19, 7 pm PT/ 10 pm ET

With Harry Abelson

Live on The Facebook

Show replay here:

https://bit.ly/2ElaVzD

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