July 2024: The Importance of Authenticity

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment."

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Wouldn’t it be the dream to be able reach success and get paid just by being yourself? Like Lil’ John or Snoop Dog. Is Bill Murray really acting or is he just playing Bill Murray? Sure, there’s charisma that can’t be taught and you either have it or you don’t to reach that level of stardom but work ethic and authenticity are two of the most important ingredients for longevity. You feel like you know these people and want to be friends with them in real life. Authenticity = Accessibility

The Joe Rogan Experience

"Authenticity is the truest form of rebellion."

- Mike Robbins

Over the last 4 years, Joe Rogan has emerged as not only the top podcaster but as one of the most important voices of today. Which is wild because he’s not a doctor, a scientist, or an author, he’s a standup comedian! But he loves to have extended, free-form conversations with interesting people. As of 2024, he earns over $100,000 for one episode, doing 3 per week, making $1.2 million a month and $14.4 million a year. New York Times reports that Spotify paid Joe Rogan over $200 million to host his podcast “The Joe Rogan Experience” exclusively on its platform. His approach seems very stripped down and the reason he’s stuck with Spotify is because they let him do his show the way he wants. He didn’t start the podcast with the intention of it becoming this lucrative, but it has. After years of groundwork and a gradual build, it’s turned into an enormous he still remains incredibly humble and genuine. You can tell he’s authentic just by listening to him talk and it’s inspiring.

Same thing with his good friend Dave Chappelle. In 2005 when he was at the very peak of his career, he turned down an offer of $50 million to do a 3rd season of his sketch comedy show, Chapelle Show, and walked away from it all. Which seemed insane at the time! No amount of money was worth it for him to compromise his artistic integrity because the show had become such a worldwide hit, he felt like he wasn’t in control and would be selling out to continue. As a result of this major decision, he’s been able to withstand an enormous career and remains relevant today, 20 years later.

Playing the Game vs Selling Out

"Authenticity requires vulnerability, transparency, and integrity."

-Janet Louise Stephenson

It’s a fine line. You have to go outside of your comfort zone but maintain your integrity in doing so. I have to play the Nashville realtor game: posting online, making videos, and boasting accomplishments, which I’m not always comfortable doing, but the support I receive afterwards makes it all worth it. If you do your best to remain authentic, you can’t miss.