We had the good fortune of connecting with Tiffany “t.barb” Barber and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tiffany “T.Barb”, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking has played a tremendous role in my life. The greater the risk the greater the reward. Risk can be scary, especially when you don’t take them. I was a social worker with the State of Michigan and I took a risk, quit my job and pursued my passion. A calculated risk changed my life and showed me a new way of living. Some people call it taking a risk, some people call it stepping out on faith but either way the chances you take will benefit your life. Had I not taken that risk to try I wouldn’t be a full time comedian. I never wanted to live with regrets. Take the risk and change your life, it changed mine.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Comedian, which is one of the most disrespected art forms, but honestly the most fun. The day a fellow social worker asked me to come perform at an open mic comedy show for the first time I was scared but I didn’t let fear stop me from trying. After watching so many people I knew live with regrets I chose to at least try and it was one of the best decisions of my life. The road from social work to entertainment was difficult but fulfilling. I am so happy and I love what I do! That choice to make one step outside of my comfort zone totally changed the trajectory of my life.

Along the way I learned that anything worth having will not be easy to obtain. It may “look” easy but that only because the person on the outside looking in is not doing the work. Anything you want to achieve may require blood, sweat and tears but once complete will offer a lifetime of joy. I am unique in the comedic space because I am myself and anytime you bring YOU to the table it will set you apart, There is literally only one you so lean into who you are and what you want will work out. Every challenge made me a better Comedian and I am thankful for the opportunity to do what I love.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was in Detroit or LA, my second home, the first thing we would do is EAT. I know that’s a greedy answer but it’s the truth. I love food, so we would find a great restaurant with some nice vibes. We would eat, drink and head somewhere to catch a comedy show or enjoy some live music before finding some karaoke or a nice dance spot.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It’s a team effort and without the support of so many I would have never made it. The city of Detroit has been instrumental in my success. I also have to thank for family for their unwavering support. They say it takes a village and that sentiment holds true in my life as I have had many people and organizations play a pivotal role in my success. My educational institutions helped mold me especially, Horizons Upward Bound at Cranbrook and Dillard University specifically. The HBCU experience molded my adult life and gave me the courage to step out of faith for any desire God put on my heart.

Website: https://www.tbarbisfunny.com

Instagram: iamtbarb

Facebook: Comedian T.Barb

Youtube: Comedian T.Barb

Other: Nonprofit website
www.tbarbandfriends.com

Image Credits
I have right to use all images submitted, Images have been purchased

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.