Akeem Woods

In this episode of Real Laughs, host Ken Miller is joined by comedian Akeem Woods in a candid, freewheeling conversation that covers everything from the evolution of comedy since Akeem's 2010 start to the realities of being a gay comedian in a sometimes unwelcoming industry. Akeem shares a viral story about a homophobic audience member in Harlem who refused to make eye contact after he mentioned going on a date with a man, highlighting the discomfort many LGBTQ+ comedians still face. He also discusses the power of storytelling on social media, particularly Threads, where he’s built a massive following through raw, personal anecdotes—like his mother scamming FEMA for Christmas—which he credits for selling out shows in Colorado. The conversation shifts to the changing landscape of comedy, with Akeem reflecting on how success now often depends more on social media savvy than stand-up talent. He shares how he once believed being funny would guarantee success, but now sees the business as driven by relationships and image. The episode also features light-hearted banter about Oscar wins, with Akeem joking about taking his hypothetical Oscar to Roscoe’s Chicken or Hamburger Mary’s, and touches on the absurdity of paying $150 to enter an Emmy nomination.