For stand-up comedians in smaller markets, one question looms larger than any heckler: should you move to New York City?
Omaha comedian Joslyne DeBonis tackled that question head-on in a recent episode of her podcast Just Jossin’ Around, joined by fellow comic Cameron Logsdon. The conversation offered a raw look at the calculations, fears and ambitions behind one of comedy’s most common career crossroads.
The NYC Dream vs. Omaha Reality
DeBonis didn’t sugarcoat the challenges. New York is expensive, competitive and notorious for crushing newcomers. But the allure remains powerful.
“I don’t want to live with ‘what ifs,'” DeBonis said, explaining that even a year or two in the city could transform her comedy career.
For her, New York represents more than stage time. It’s access to sharper comics, brutal honesty and the kind of pressure that forces growth. She described the city as a crucible where comedians either level up or burn out.
Can You Make It Without Moving?
Logsdon challenged the assumption that NYC is required for success. Plenty of comedians build strong careers from smaller cities, he noted, while others move to New York and flame out within months.
He referenced Omaha comics Jack and Georgia Comstock, who took different paths — Jack to New York, Georgia to Denver — with mixed results. Neither route guaranteed stardom, but both taught valuable lessons.
DeBonis agreed that success doesn’t require a specific zip code. Her goals aren’t fame or fortune but consistent stage time, tighter writing and eventually becoming a trusted regular at venues like the Comedy Cellar.
The Financial and Emotional Cost
DeBonis acknowledged she’s fortunate to have a remote job that could support a move, but she’s realistic about what it would require: downsizing, strict budgeting and sacrificing creature comforts.
Her bigger concern is discipline. “I have the drive but not the discipline,” she admitted, recognizing that surviving NYC’s comedy grind would require serious self-management.
Logsdon reframed discipline as consistency, noting that many comedians in smaller scenes plateau not from lack of opportunity but from lack of accountability. Without external pressure, it’s easy to stay comfortable.
Networking Across, Not Up
One key insight from the conversation centered on networking strategy. Logsdon advised against “networking up” — chasing big names or clout. Instead, he recommended building relationships with peers at the same level.
“The people you come up with are the ones who’ll vouch for you later,” he said.
DeBonis cited her recent trip to Minneapolis, where she connected with comedians at her stage of development. Those relationships felt more genuine because they were built on mutual understanding rather than status.
Growth Through Discomfort
DeBonis reflected on reaching many of her original goals: a dream apartment, steady gigs, a supportive job. But that comfort now feels like a plateau.
“What next?” she wondered.
She recalled how bombing early in her career sparked intense growth and believes relocating to a harsher scene could provide that same catalyst. Being surrounded by better comics would force her to tighten her writing and push past “passable” material.
Logsdon countered that growth doesn’t always require relocation. Setting concrete goals, holding higher standards and taking consistent action matter more than geography. But if DeBonis needs external pressure to thrive, New York might be exactly what she needs.
The Timing Question
Both comics agreed timing is everything. Moving too soon could be financially catastrophic. Waiting too long risks stagnation.
Logsdon shared research showing that people who made bold life changes — even unsuccessful ones — reported greater satisfaction than those who played it safe. The act of moving forward mattered more than the outcome.
What About Life Outside Comedy?
DeBonis also discussed traditional life milestones she sees around her: marriage, kids, stability. None of it calls to her.
“I don’t chase relationships. I don’t fantasize about weddings,” she said.
That clarity frees her to prioritize creative fulfillment without pressure to fit societal expectations.
No Decision Yet, Just Discovery
DeBonis isn’t packing her bags. She’s in “discovery mode,” planning trips to Columbus, Pittsburgh and possibly New York this summer to perform and explore.
No rash decisions. Just curiosity and momentum.
For anyone wrestling with a creative leap, this conversation offers a reminder: the path isn’t linear, but asking the right questions matters. Watch the full episode of Just Jossin’ Around here:
