November 01, 2025

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

48 minutes

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:[email protected]

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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By Sean Kelly

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