Recommended Consumption: Nardwuar the Human Serviette's Ted Talk - "Do It Yourself!"

I've been reflecting on asking for things

Folks,

I hope all is well! This will be a shorter edition of OITYA for my own sake. It has been a bad week of headaches and migraines and did you see how long that Taran Wanderer piece last week was? Sheesh!

Instead of writing a huge analysis, I wanted to share a piece of media to share with you all. As far as Ted Talks go, this is my favorite of all time. Nardwuar is a Canadian comedian most famous for his interview with rap and pop musicians. With his cooky attitude juxtaposing his guests and his creepily detailed questions, he has made a name for himself in the music industry.

Anyways, Nardwuar’s Ted Talk has been very influential on my life. Without me describing the whole thing, Nardwuar talks about how far living a curious life and being willing to ask for things.

If you remember, three weeks ago I posted a post about my origins as a narrative theorist via a professor I had at OSU. I spoke highly of his research and how it resonated with my interests. Somewhere in my mind I thought, “maybe I ought to share this with him.” So I did. Considering I have always wanted to work with him, I figured why not ask if he is in any need of help on any projects he had in the works. Turns out, he did. Now I have a new job.

There was a moment of hesitation I had before sending that email. Thoughts of doubt, the brashness of asking a prestigious academic for a job, and other reasons not to send the email flooded in. But thanks to Nardwuar’s Ted Talk, I had the courage to ask anyways. I will never be more baffled by the power of simply asking.

I got my job at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum by asking if they wanted to hire new students. I got a spot of OSU’s student radio by asking. So many incredible experiences by just going out on a limb to ask.

Thats not to mention the several rejections in between. Did some hurt? Sure. But I’m still here, aren’t I?

Anyways, enjoy the video. See you soon.