Cedric The Entertainer | #012 The Kenny Aronoff Sessions

Joining Kenny on the podcast this week is the legendary king of not only comedy, but stage, screen, television and beyond - Cedric "The Entertainer". A lifelong entrepreneur, Cedric has blazed a trail from humble beginnings in Missouri to becoming a renowned actor, comedian, producer, author, philanthropist, and so much more. Throughout today’s episode, he emphasizes the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and embracing one's passions, illustrating how he fearlessly followed his own passion for comedy, took strategic steps to achieve his dreams, and has emerged triumphant. Kenny and Cedric's lively banter here today, filled with valuable insights, humorous anecdotes, and plenty of laughter, will leave you equal parts entertained and inspired.

Cedric shares details of his fascinating journey all the way from a job in insurance to a career in stand-up comedy and on to the glitz and glamor of Hollywood's acting world. He also recounts heartfelt anecdotes from his early acting days, his breakthrough moment with The Steve Harvey Show, and his passion for writing that has generated his books Grown-A$$ Man and the upcoming Flipping Boxcars. Not only does the episode highlight Cedric's creative endeavors, but it also sheds light on the challenges of comedy in today's politically correct world and the significance of engaging in respectful discussions. From heartwarming tributes to family to discussions about the ever-changing entertainment landscape, this captivating conversation is a celebration of embracing one's true calling, that will undoubtedly uplift and empower you to chase your own dreams with belief and unyielding passion.

Episode Highlights:

• Cedric’s mother and her influence on his life and careers
• Cedric and Kenny on ‘belief’ amid the uncertainties of working in entertainment
• Their wines with Smith Devereux Winery
• Their perspective on work ethic, preparation, and giving the audience something special
• Cedric’s early acting work
• His books, Grown Ass Man and Flipping Box Cars
• Internet “facts” about Cedric
• The benefits of Cedric’s foundation in comedy
• Cedric on the current challenges in comedy
• His sports career
• Cedric’s AC Barbeque line and his new show, Kings of BBQ

Quotes:

"My mother was a schoolteacher, so education was a big part of our household.”

"You followed your passion, you followed your truth, but that foundation that you got from that education, that's so cool."

"You have to really believe it. Because when you believe it, man, it comes to you.”

“So get in there and take those wins and those losses and that way to flow around and that way of learning because you can't stop yourself looking for success by preventing yourself from even trying to be successful. You’ve got to do it."

“I love wine, and I want my Mama’s name to be recognized, and so deal with it.”

"Grown-A$$ Man was really more of the story of me and how I came to be.”

"No, sir. I'm pretty much an entrepreneur by nature. I'm like a person that's always kind of creating things and looking forward, developing things."

Links:

Kenny Aronoff

Cedric "The Entertainer"