How Student Loans Nearly Ruined Comedian Joel Kim Booster's Life!

Vivian sat down with Joel Kim Booster to explore the surprisingly complex finances of building a comedy career across standup, writing, and acting. Joel breaks down what comedians actually earn from Netflix specials, how he navigated the transition from day jobs to full-time comedy, and why selling out theaters doesn't automatically mean financial security. He answers the big questions about balancing artistic integrity with commercial opportunities, managing the unpredictable income streams of the entertainment industry, what building wealth looks like as a performer, and how being an openly gay Asian American comic has shaped his approach to money and success. Joel also shares what it's really like working in writers' rooms versus touring solo, from "Fire Island" to his standup specials, and why maintaining creative control has been just as important as landing the biggest gigs. Keep up with Joel on Instagram and watch LOOT on Apple TV! Follow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok! Got a financial question you want answered in a future episode? Email us at [e-mail] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices