Is Stand-Up Comedy the Best Therapy for Ex-Homeschoolers? | #35

Stream Jeremy's New Album Here: https://www.blondemedicine.com/bm142-almost-a-grown-man

In this episode of, I sit down with comedian Jeremy Alder to unpack his wild and winding journey from fundamentalist Christian homeschooling in rural Texas to releasing his debut stand-up comedy album, Almost a Grown Man. Jeremy shares what it was like to be one of the only homeschoolers in South Texas during the 1980s, his early curriculum of Bible studies and Highlights magazines, and how his world expanded through music, friendship, and eventually a dive into philosophy. We discuss his later-life entry into stand-up comedy, how preaching prepared him for the stage, and the ups and downs of crafting a career in comedy. This episode is filled with laughs, insights, and nostalgia for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider trying to make sense of their past.

Key Takeaways:

• Jeremy was homeschooled starting in the mid-80s with no local community or support network.

• His early education relied on Highlights magazines and Bible memorization.

• A shift occurred in the '90s when homeschooling became more accepted and structured.

• Jeremy's path included Christian rock dreams, a dip into philosophy, and eventually stand-up comedy.

• He uses humor to process and reflect on his strict religious upbringing.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome to the Ex Homeschoolers Clubhouse

00:09 Introducing Jeremy Alder: From Rural Texas to Stand-Up Comedy

03:05 Jeremy's Homeschool Journey: Early Years and Challenges

12:48 The Evolution of Homeschooling: Community and Acceptance

24:44 High School and Beyond: Navigating Adulthood

36:42 Exploring Faith and Philosophy: A New Path

38:23 Connecting with the Intelligent Design Community

39:42 Transition to University Life

40:14 Challenges and Triumphs of Homeschooling

40:44 Applying to College as a Homeschooler

44:35 Embracing the Homeschool Identity

47:30 Journey into Comedy

54:19 The Art and Struggle of Stand-Up Comedy

01:08:21 Reflections on Homeschooling and Public Education

01:16:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Jeremy Alder

• Vist his website for the most up to date information: https://www.jeremyalder.com
• See his previous special: https://youtu.be/i9OmDo5Weoc?si=nBFGW9emmrnVr5hM

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