The Commercial Break: TCB Infomercial Episode Featuring Courtney Michelle (Live From Audacy Studios)

Release Date: July 8, 2025
Host: Bryan Green and Krissy Hoadley
Guest: Courtney Michelle, Social Media Influencer and Comedian

1. Introduction to Courtney Michelle (05:21 - 07:19)

In this special infomercial episode of The Commercial Break, hosts Bryan Green and Krissy Hoadley welcome Courtney Michelle to the show, broadcasting live from Odyssey Studios in downtown Atlanta. Courtney, a long-time social media influencer and comedian, shares insights into her journey from performing online to launching a one-woman comedy show.

Bryan Green (05:27):
"She is the mother of the show."

2. Transition from Social Media to Live Performance (10:52 - 37:09)

The conversation delves into Courtney's evolution from creating content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram to performing live shows. Courtney discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning from the controlled environment of social media to the unpredictability of live audiences.

Courtney Michelle (12:03):
"I had always said, 'I'll never do social media acting,' and literally the thing that pays my bills is what I'm doing now."

Bryan Green (42:18):
"Taking what you do here—improv—to something live must be nerve-wracking."

Courtney Michelle (37:09):
"We did a rehearsal of the show for a few people, and it was okay, but there was very little laughing. During the actual show, the audience's energy transformed it into a euphoric experience."

3. Personal Background and Upbringing (15:38 - 22:20)

Courtney opens up about her upbringing in West Virginia, moving to Miami and then to LA to pursue her passion for acting and entertainment. She reflects on growing up without a father figure and how her single mother's search for love influenced her desire for attention and validation.

Courtney Michelle (15:46):
"I grew up poor, single mom, just loved entertaining people. Always the big ham, always the weird friend by default."

Bryan Green (17:34):
"I had just gotten dumped by my first real boyfriend in college. I romanticized leaving this town."

4. The Role of Comedy as a Coping Mechanism (24:30 - 35:26)

The hosts and Courtney explore how comedy served as a refuge for Courtney, helping her navigate personal insecurities and complex relationships, particularly with her parents. They discuss the psychological aspects of seeking validation through humor and the impact of parental expectations.

Bryan Green (31:30):
"A child recognizing that 'mother' and 'father' are just words helps in seeing them as flawed individuals."

Courtney Michelle (34:53):
"I tend to fall for the idea of someone. It's about expectations I've built up for a person who doesn't exist."

5. Live Shows and Performance Anxiety (37:09 - 43:45)

Courtney shares her experiences with live performances, including her first sold-out show in Nashville. She discusses overcoming performance anxiety, the importance of audience energy, and the vulnerability involved in live storytelling through comedy.

Courtney Michelle (37:23):
"There were more laughs than I could have imagined. It was an energy thing; you need the crowd's energy to feel safe."

Bryan Green (43:08):
"You've taken your creation live, which takes immense courage. Kudos for that."

6. Social Media Influence and Content Creation (49:26 - 52:10)

The dialogue shifts to the dynamics of social media, follower interactions, and maintaining authenticity online. Courtney discusses managing negative feedback, the balance between seeking validation and self-expression, and strategies for creating relatable yet distinct content.

Courtney Michelle (50:10):
"I try not to engage in DMs unless I'm seeking feedback. It's about recognizing what's relatable versus what's just noise."

Bryan Green (53:07):
"It's like a stamp of approval when interesting people follow you. It adds social credit."

7. Future Plans and Touring (58:50 - 62:46)

Courtney outlines her upcoming tour plans, including performances in major cities like Nashville, Atlanta, and Chicago. She reflects on the potential challenges of filling venues and the excitement of expanding her live audience.

Courtney Michelle (59:03):
"We're doing September at City Winery. It's a gorgeous venue, and I'm excited yet scared to fill it up."

Bryan Green (60:30):
"If you can prove you can sell tickets in a big venue, promoters will take you to the next level."

8. Closing Remarks and Takeaways (63:00 - 68:41)

As the interview wraps up, Bryan and Krissy commend Courtney for her authenticity and courage in sharing her story. They encourage listeners to follow her on social media and attend her live shows, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between podcasting and live performances.

Bryan Green (67:23):
"Courtney Michelle was absolutely delightful. Check out her live shows in Chicago, Austin, Nashville, and Atlanta."

Chris Hoadley (68:50):
"Best to you out there in the podcast universe. Until next time!"

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Courtney Michelle (12:03):
  "I had always said, 'I'll never do social media acting,' and literally the thing that pays my bills is what I'm doing now."

• Bryan Green (31:30):
  "A child recognizing that 'mother' and 'father' are just words helps in seeing them as flawed individuals."

• Courtney Michelle (37:23):
  "There were more laughs than I could have imagined. It was an energy thing; you need the crowd's energy to feel safe."

• Courtney Michelle (50:10):
  "I try not to engage in DMs unless I'm seeking feedback. It's about recognizing what's relatable versus what's just noise."

• Bryan Green (60:30):
  "If you can prove you can sell tickets in a big venue, promoters will take you to the next level."

Key Takeaways

• Authenticity in Content Creation: Courtney emphasizes the importance of creating content that resonates personally, moving beyond seeking validation to expressing genuine humor and experiences.

• Transitioning from Online to Live: The shift from digital platforms to live performances presents both challenges and exhilarating rewards, highlighting the necessity of audience energy in live comedy.

• Personal Growth through Comedy: Comedy serves as a therapeutic tool for Courtney, aiding her in processing complex emotions and fostering deeper connections with her audience.

• Balancing Social Media Presence: Managing a large following requires strategic engagement, focusing on relatable content while filtering out negativity to maintain mental well-being.

• Future Endeavors: Courtney is poised to expand her live performances, leveraging her social media presence to draw audiences and continue her growth as a comedian.

For more insights and episodes, visit tcbpodcast.com and follow The Commercial Break on Instagram, YouTube, and other major platforms.