Public humiliation is not often sought out. I, on the other hand, was looking forward to it for weeks…
Some people tremble at the mere thought of standing on stage in front of a room full of strangers while a trained assassin points out your flaws. You see, I’m a huge fan of comedian Jeffrey Ross and when I learned that he’d be performing at Montreal’s Just For Laughs Festival, I extended my trip to Canada just to see his show.

As detailed in his awesome book I Only Roast the Ones I Love, Ross explains that roasting is an art, and not something that is meant to be mean-spirited. The tradition of busting balls is more a ode to the subject than a personal put down. To me, to be roasted is an honor. And by the best in the business? How could I pass up the opportunity? So, after a few beers and a killer start to his set, Ross invited whoever wanted to be subjected to his wrath to the stage. I jumped to the front of the line and the cameras rolled:

An original jab and one that could almost be considered a compliment. Brad Pitt? Not too shabby! He was equally as ruthless to all the other participants.  Most importantly, it was a great time. Aside from my forty-second personal roast, just hanging out, drinking, laughing–there was a great vibe in the room. Yea, Ross was eviscerating everyone, but we were all in on the joke. I feel it was such a positive experience, that I recommend it to everyone. Put yourself out there. Laugh at yourself. Lighten the fuck up. The world could be a better place if everyone was roasted regularly.

It was a a proud moment and an encounter I’ll be sharing for many years to come.

Again, thanks Jeff.