Kaja Martin is a comedian, actor, writer, producer, director living in Los Angeles. She is VP of production company Equals Three Studios, which has a combined audience of over 17 million subscribers. Right now she is on a stand-up tour with comedian Ray William Johnson.
Kaja has helmed several successful YouTube shows (The Equals Three Show, Top 6, Booze Light Year, Comedians On, and Date Debate). She has also helped launch them into network platforms, such as Netflix and Verizon Go90 with the original series, Riley Rewind and Miss Earth. In Film, Kaja has been fortunate enough to Executive Produce with brothers Jay & Mark Duplass for their 2015 comedy thriller: Manson Family Vacation.
In her free time, she teaches her dog Neptune – a French bulldog, to read and write.
We enjoyed this lovely interview with Kaja. Check it out below.
Thank you for granting the interview, Kaja! We are excited to speak with you about your career. How did you get your start in the entertainment industry?
Well, I am thrilled to be talking to you!
To be honest, it feels like it’s always been in my DNA – I was born with the hair for comedy. It’s wild, refuses to lay down, and always wants to be the star of the party. Really it was just my duty to keep up with it. I came to Los Angeles for college where I promptly learned everything I would need to succeed at a job in the entertainment industry but none of the resume credits to land a job. I worked my way up from lowly assistant jobs, to thankless producer jobs to running the company! Exactly the place I didn’t want to be! So, I did what any sane artist would do. I quit. Now I do freelance writing, directing, and creative development consulting. You should check out my comedy videos on Facebook & Youtube!
You’re a comedian, actor, writer, producer, and director. What has inspired you to work in these areas?
I got into all of these areas because I enjoy challenging myself and the personal growth that comes with learning new skills. Also, it makes me sound super impressive – like, I know how to do all those things? WOW! I’m like pretty rad.
You are the coolest! You helped launch several YouTube shows on the Netflix and Verizon Go90 platforms. Tell us more.
A personal favorite of mine was the web series, Riley Rewind, written by Anna Akana. I wore so many hats on that set it was ridiculous. It was truly a labor of love to get that series done and at the end of the day it performed well critically, with fans, and we sold it to Netflix. This project stands out for me because it stood for something. Portrayed by a very diverse cast – It dove head first into issues around teen bullying and suicide which are very important to me.
You’re currently on a stand-up tour with comedian Ray William Johnson. Can you tell us about your best experience on touring?
The best part of touring is the fans! It’s always the fans. Meeting everyone after the show brings me more joy than I can even express! So, thank you, thank you, thank you for coming to our shows. Best experience on tour was when my brother surprised me by flying in to see one of my shows! I just started crying cause I was so happy. It’s an awesome experience to share what you do with people you love.
Most shows have male comics. However, we are seeing a rise in female comics making their mark in the industry by turning to film. Do you think it’s true that the entertainment industry is more of a challenge for female comedians than it is for males?
Of course, it’s true. Just look at any statistics or research on the subject. It is more of a challenge for women whether they’re comedians or directors or in the business sector, etc. I think what’s more important than discussing this question is discussing what steps can be taken to remedy this issue. Specifically, for Standup… Dudes – be inclusive to everyone that is interested in comedy and hitting open mics. Don’t be a predator. Research tangible things you can do to make anyone who is in the minority feel more comfortable. Ladies – you are hilarious! Go by yourself OR find a buddy to hit open mics with and only go to spots that are inclusive. You will not get better by putting yourself in uncomfortable positions. You get better with support because it allows you to be okay failing. Start your own open mic – be the change you want to see. Obviously, these steps are wayyyyy simplified but I think it’s at least a start.
What would you say is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal is to be making consistently great work. I want to be working regularly and dependably making authentic, engaging, and fulfilling content. I think that’s harder and more important than getting the blockbusters or the award show hardware. I put out comedic sketches every Friday – I’m always on my grind, I’m always happy to be the hardest worker in the room, because in order to achieve my ultimate goal I need to always be raising the bar for myself. And if I never reach the consistency I would like to be the first person to make a narrative film completely shot on the moon.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I love to read! I am really into Sci-Fi and fantasy books. I would really be down to get into some LARP-ing if anyone knows any good groups in the Los Angeles area. Really just hanging outside in nature is so enjoyable – Hiking, walking my dog, spending hours trying to find where I parked my car. Without my friends and family, I would be lost so spending time with them is key. They give me perspective because none of them have jobs in the entertainment industry. They give me the lowdown on what’s happening in the real world and ways in which I need to be contributing with my art.
Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t asked?
Check me out on Social Media I put up new comedic sketch videos every Friday!
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thekajamartin/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kajamartin/
Youtube https://www.youtube.com/TheKajaMartin
IMDb: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4427276/
Featured Image Credit: Mikel Healey.
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