Get All Access for $5/mo

How Stand-Up Comedian Tom Papa Went From Joke Slinger to Food Network Baking Expert Listen in as the comedy veteran explains how he pivoted from nightclub performer to baking authority.

By Patrick Carone

Courtesy Tom Papa

On this episode of How Success Happens, we chat with Tom Papa, stand-up comedian and Food Network host.

For over 25 years, Tom Papa has been standing up on an empty stage with only a stool and a microphone. His job? To make a room full of strangers laugh their butts off. For a stand up comedian, every performance is a risk, and to find success for over two decades is an incredible accomplishment. For Papa, however, this wasn't enough.

Related: 11 Habits of Truly Happy People

Besides being Head Writer and a regular performer for Live From Here, the newest incarnation of the legendary radio show, A Prairie Home Companion, and releasing his first book, Your Dad Stole My Rake, this summer, Papa premiered his own Food Network TV series, Baked, in September. On the show, Papa visits iconic bakeries around the country to talk to the bakers and learn from their wisdom.

Related: How to Start a Restaurant

How did he pivot from nightclub performer to baking authority? It all started with a wild yeast sourdough starter.

Check out the full conversation below and find more episodes of How Success Happens here.

Patrick Carone

Entrepreneur Staff

Special Projects Director

Patrick Carone covers all aspects of entrepreneurship, specializing in the automotive, entertainment, hospitality, spirits and cannabis industries.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Business News

Wells Fargo Reportedly Fired More Than a Dozen Employees for Faking Keyboard Activity

The bank told Bloomberg that it "does not tolerate unethical behavior."

Innovation

The Key to Real Innovation Is Cross-Pollination — Here Are 10 Ways to Implement It in Your Business

Transform your business with this unique approach to sparking innovation.

Business Models

5 Questions to Ask to Make Sure Your Company's Financial Plan Is on Track

Conducting a "check-up" at midyear is essential to maintain a healthy financial plan.

Leadership

7 Ways You Might Be Damaging Your Credibility as an Entrepreneur

Here are seven credibility killers entrepreneurs need to be aware of.

Business Solutions

Why Every Solopreneur Needs to Embrace AI-Powered Teams

With the right approach, solopreneurs can harness AI to drive efficiency, productivity and business growth.

Side Hustle

These Are the 10 Best Online Side Hustles of 2024 to Earn Extra Cash

From teaching to testing artificial intelligence, these side hustles can earn you quick cash from home.