Networth and Chill with Your Rich BFF
Episode: How Nimesh Patel Built Wealth Through Comedy: SNL to Stand-Up Success Story
Host: Vivian Tu
Guest: Nimesh Patel
Release Date: June 4, 2025
Introduction: Setting the Stage
Vivian Tu, known as Your Rich BFF, welcomes listeners to another engaging episode of Networth and Chill. She introduces Nimesh Patel, a dynamic stand-up comedian with an impressive resume that includes touring over 80 cities, writing for Saturday Night Live (SNL), and preparing for a Netflix special. Vivian sets the tone by humorously comparing her own comedic struggles to Nimesh's successes.
Notable Quote:
Vivian Tu: “I may fancy myself a comedian because I think I'm so funny, but I don't know if I would necessarily make the cut in the standup circuit.” (01:43)
From Finance to the Comedy Club: Nimesh’s Early Career
Nimesh Patel shares his academic journey, initially pursuing pre-med at NYU before transferring to Stern School of Business to study finance. Despite excelling academically with a 4.0 GPA, he realized his passion did not lie in finance. Struggling with courses like organic chemistry, Nimesh transitioned to private equity but soon found himself disillusioned with the corporate grind.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “I transferred to Stern because everyone was doing finance. Why not try it out? I had no idea what I was doing.” (04:46)
The Leap of Faith: Embracing Comedy
While working in finance, Nimesh began performing stand-up comedy, juggling his day job and his passion. His dedication paid off when Lilly Singh offered him a writing job in November 2020, providing the financial stability he needed to invest in his comedic career. Encouraged by fellow comedians like Sahib Singh, Nimesh leveraged TikTok to gain significant traction, receiving up to 800,000 views overnight by posting his stand-up clips.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “I was making three, four grand a show... That was the beginning of what felt like, oh, shit, like the big break.” (39:20)
Building a Network in Comedy
Transitioning from a finance network to the comedy scene, Nimesh emphasizes the meritocratic nature of comedy clubs and open mics, where talent determines success rather than connections. This environment allowed him to connect with other successful comedians, many of whom have achieved notable success in the industry.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “Comedy, for better or for worse, is kind of a meritocracy. We’re all trying to tell the funniest thing.” (09:05)
Financial Challenges and Mistakes
Nimesh candidly discusses his financial missteps, notably his reluctance to invest early. Despite earning a steady income from his SNL stint, he indulged in extravagant spending, including $20,000 trips and large social expenditures, which hindered his ability to save effectively. Additionally, he recounted an ambitious but financially draining attempt to produce a high-quality comedy special for Netflix, which cost him over $200,000 without the expected return.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “The most expensive financial mistake I made was spending $200,000 on a Netflix special that could have been done for five grand.” (42:07)
The Breakthrough: Touring Success
Capitalizing on his TikTok success, Nimesh successfully transitioned to touring, performing in cities across the United States. This move allowed him to generate a reliable income stream from live performances, enhancing his financial stability and expanding his fan base.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “I was making three, four grand a show... that was the beginning of what felt like the big break.” (39:48)
Personal Background and Upbringing
Nimesh delves into his Indian-American upbringing in Parsippany, New Jersey. Growing up, his family was middle-class, oscillating between financial security and instability. His parents emphasized education and stability, with his father running a liquor store and exhibiting an entrepreneurial spirit. This background instilled in Nimesh a complex relationship with money, balancing a desire for financial security with the pursuit of his passion.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “My dad’s mentality was, like, we might die, so just enjoy your life today.” (24:38)
Advice for Aspiring Comedians
Reflecting on his journey, Nimesh advises aspiring comedians to maintain financial stability while pursuing their passion. He recommends not quitting a steady job until comedy becomes a reliable income source, emphasizing the importance of meeting basic needs to foster creativity.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “Don't quit your day job. Figure out how you can do comedy and also have a job.” (47:10)
Current Ventures and Future Plans
Currently, Nimesh is preparing for a Netflix special and continuing his extensive touring schedule, which includes cities like Miami, London, and Cleveland. He also discusses his selective approach to influencer marketing, choosing to partner only with brands he genuinely uses and trusts.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “I’m very selective with influencer marketing. I would never do something I didn't use.” (36:17)
Concluding Insights: Balancing Passion and Financial Prudence
Throughout the conversation, Nimesh emphasizes the delicate balance between chasing one's dreams and maintaining financial prudence. His journey underscores the significance of leveraging opportunities, such as social media and networking, while remaining mindful of financial decisions that can impact long-term stability.
Notable Quote:
Nimesh Patel: “You are able to be the best version of yourself when your basic needs are met.” (48:54)
Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Vivian wraps up the episode by highlighting Nimesh’s resilience and strategic approach to building wealth through comedy. Listeners are encouraged to follow Nimesh’s tours and stay connected through his website, findingnimesh.com, for updates and ticket information.
Notable Quote:
Vivian Tu: “Like, you are able to be the best version of yourself when your basic needs are met.” (48:53)
Where to Find Nimesh Patel
- Website: findingnimesh.com
- Social Media: Instagram at @findingnimesh
- Upcoming Tours: Across major cities including Madison, London, and Miami
Nimesh Patel’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic financial planning, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passion. His insights provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of building wealth while following their dreams.