Influential Woman · StandUp Comedy
Bridgette Martin
Stand up Comedian, --
Chattanooga, TN 37343
Her Story
About Bridgette
Bridgette Martin has been working in stand-up comedy since 2003. She began her involvement in the industry while in college by taking a part-time job at a comedy club to pay bills, which led to about 10 years working behind the scenes before she started performing on stage. Today, Martin performs, produces shows, mentors comedians on the business aspects of the industry, and serves as a board member for Look Out Live, a Chattanooga non-profit that helps performers get paid for their work. She has received three Donnie Awards and has served as a panelist for the Women in Film and Television Academy in Atlanta. Her earlier career included roles in accounting, bookkeeping, hospitality management, and running a comedy club. Martin values community and produces shows and fundraisers, including events where admission is period products to support those facing period poverty. She credits her divorce with forcing her to think differently and giving her the start to pursue performing professionally.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Bridgette
01What do you attribute your success to?
My divorce really turned my world upside down and forced me to think about things differently. It gave me the start to get on stage and do what I do. Without that, I wouldn't be where I am right now. It taught me to keep moving forward and not get stuck.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Put your big girl pants on. The comedy industry is very male-dominated, so you cannot be afraid to be intimidating or you will get walked all over. You have to be a big girl.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do not be afraid. This industry takes a very thick skin. It is very male-dominated so it can be intimidating, but approach it being strong and brave. Remember you are brave for doing it in the first place and never lose sight of that or let others deter you.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge for women is getting pigeonholed. People think female comedians will all talk about the same thing or hate men, failing to recognize them as individuals. The opportunity is that there is probably an open mic happening in the city, comedy is everywhere, so the first step is getting on stage somewhere.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe in community. The shows I produce build community and get people engaging with each other. I am a huge fan of in-person interaction and make it my mission to get people out of the house interacting personally and with their community. I do fundraisers that raise money or get items donated like period products.
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