77. Funny Business: Comic with an Entrepreneur’s Heart
Marshall Chiles
Marshall Chiles is a comedian with the heart of an entrepreneur. His current venture, Humor Wins, offers corporate comedy roasts, executive humor coaching and applying self-deprecation. Why? Because, as Inc. Magazine said, “Leaders who laugh at themselves appear more likable, trusting, and caring to their people.”
How Did You Start Using Your Talents?
At age 7 Marshall realized he had a gift for making people laugh. In 1977, he started watching stand-up comics on HBO. When Eddie Murphy’s comedy special, Delirious, ran in 1984, he memorized it word for word. But Marshall adds, “Nobody’s on stage telling jokes because they had a happy childhood.”
The Most Impactful Turning Point?
Marshall was raised by a single mom. “Growing up poor, I didn’t want to be a poor artist, so I decided I would build a business, sell it, have money and not be a starving artist. Along the way, he also discovered he was an entrepreneur at heart, who could make people laugh.
The Most Powerful Lessons Learned?
“My mindset is that you’re not in business to make money. Money is just something that comes along from doing the right stuff. It’s always been whatever’s best for comedy,” Marshall declares. Because of that approach, he has a good reputation with comedians, including many famous comics.
On His Bookshelf
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen R. Covey
Sick in the Head: Conversations About Life and Comedy, by Judd Apatow
Top Tools on His Browser
“Go look it up on Google!”
Connecting With Marshall Chiles
Website:
www.HumorWins.com
Twitter:
humorwins4u
Facebook:
facebook.com/humorwins4u
LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/marshallchiles
