What does it mean to create a life that’s both deeply authentic and unapologetically ambitious? Comedian, actor, and writer Danielle Perez joins Kara Duffy to talk about building a career in entertainment while navigating disability, representation, and the realities of modern creative life.

Together they explore the power of visibility, the importance of accessibility, and why success in creative industries requires far more than talent alone. Danielle shares candid stories about stand-up comedy, acting alongside Larry David on Curb Your Enthusiasm, surviving the chaos of LA entertainment culture, and the spreadsheets, systems, and resilience that keep her moving forward.

----------------------------------------------------------------

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

INSTA: @divadelux

00:00 — Introduction to Danielle Perez

02:00 — The Accident That Changed Danielle’s Life

03:15 — Discovering Stand-Up Comedy

04:15 — Friendship, Support Systems & Madison Shepherd

04:50 — Disability Representation, DEI & Accessibility

07:20 — Why Representation in Media Matters

08:35 — The Weird Things People Say to Disabled People

13:00 — Accessibility, the ADA & Public Spaces

19:50 — Acting, Writing & Creative Vulnerability

23:20 — Success, Ambition & The Entertainment Industry

29:10 — The Business of Comedy & Creative Careers

33:20 — Goal Setting, Lists & Creative Discipline

36:00 — The Myth of the “Tortured Artist”

41:50 — Hustle Culture, MLMs & the Manosphere

44:30 — Advocacy, Identity & Public Expectations

47:10 — Accessible Fashion & Plus-Size Challenges

52:15 — Acting on Curb Your Enthusiasm

55:15 — Upcoming Projects & Returning to Ballard

56:10 — What Power Means to Danielle Perez

57:10 — Supporting Artists & Live Comedy

58:35 — Where to Follow Danielle Perez

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices