
Stand-up comics on the verge of breaking out and becoming the next big name offer insights into the motivations behind baring one's soul for a living.

Comic Daniel Webb gives his unique take on being an empowered gay man in the heart of Texas.

Comic Paris Sashay grows up in a large family in the Washington, D.C., area; Paris takes on racism, feminism and family slay the crowd at her home club, the DC Improv.

Scout Durwood knows what it's like to be the outsider and has created a place for herself onstage with an act unlike any other; she seamlessly blends original songs, absurd dance and provocative stand-up comedy into a hilarious performance.

After her dreams of becoming a WNBA player are cut short by a tragic accident, Zainab Johnson finds her way to the stage, where her smart and edgy storytelling is informed by her experiences growing up in Harlem in an African-American Muslim family.