Building Community Through Comedy With Jason Hedden

In this episode, I’m beyond excited to sit down with the multi-talented Jason Hedden—Executive Director of Recruitment and Community Relations at Gulf Coast State College, theater professor turned comedy producer, and the creative mind behind Panama City Comedy. Jason shares how his journey from theater to comedy started by simply showing up at an open mic and evolved into a thriving comedy scene in Panama City.

We talk about the importance of stepping into new opportunities, balancing creativity with family life, and how building community has been at the heart of everything he does. From teaching to performing to producing, Jason reminds us that we’re all capable of blending our passions and creating something meaningful.

Episode Highlights:
[02:00] Jason’s career journey
[04:45] How a late-night open mic sparked a new creative path.
[07:30] Building community through comedy
[10:15] Recognizing and fostering potential in others.
[13:00] Balancing passion projects and family life
[17:20] The pressure of saying “yes” and learning to prioritize what matters.
[21:00] The influence of Gulf Coast State College.
[26:00] Theater training in producing successful comedy shows.
[31:15] Building creative spaces in unexpected places.
[36:00]Turning poetry into music and pushing past creative fears.
[42:00] Finding peace through unplugging.
[46:30] Jason’s advice for finding joy and purpose in life’s hard moments.

Special Thanks:A big thank you to our amazing sponsors who make this podcast possible:
Beachy Beach Real Estate: Call 850-233-4351

Kittie Stewart, Dream Team Lending (Powered by Edge): Email Kittie.Stewart@edgehomefinance

Bay Tax: Email [email protected] | Phone 720-310-0084

Links and Resources:

• Panama City Comedy: Follow on Facebook
• Gulf Coast State College: Learn More
• Emerald Coast Theatre Company: Explore Productions
• Jason Hedden’s Work: Connect on Instagram

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