For this episode of Pass the Mic: Creating a Stage for Change, we spoke with Knoxville-based comedian, activist, community leader, poet, and self-described "truth teller" Brandi Augustus. In her comedy career, Brandi has opened for Katherine Blanford, Holly Lena, and Sam Tallent. She was voted Knoxville's Finest Comedian in 2023 and is a show producer with Tiny Stage Comedy. In this conversation, Brandi describes the struggles that led her to living in Knoxville, the personal growth that followed, her unexpected path toward comedy, and ways that she uses comedy to talk about the realities of parenthood. Brandi also describes her work with the Highlander Center and The Bottom. You will also hear some recordings captured live by Brandi during her road trip for a comedy festival performance.

https://appalachiancommunityfund.org/

Music for this episode was composed and performed by William Wright.