74. Jemma Bayley - The Renaissance Of Politeness & Gratitude

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74. Jemma Bayley - The Renaissance Of Politeness & Gratitude

Jun 01, 2025

In Episode 74 of The Lui Diaz Podcast, Lui welcomes Brisbane-based comedian and illustrator Jemma Bayley for a lively, hilarious, and heartfelt conversation that zigzags from dark comedy to childhood nostalgia, nudist tendencies, and the art of stand-up.

This episode captures Lui and Jemma’s instant chemistry as they riff on everything from misspelled names to the cultural quirks of Australian comedy. Jemma shares her journey as a dyslexic artist and performer, her bold experience performing in a naked comedy show at the Adelaide Fringe, and her thoughts on pushing creative boundaries while avoiding the trap of complacency. Lui opens up about the joys of parenting, while both explore the instant feedback loop of stand-up comedy and the importance of resilience in the face of bombing on stage. The episode is a rollercoaster of laughs, introspection, and raw authenticity, with Jemma’s unapologetic confidence and Lui’s warm curiosity shining through.

Key Themes

Comedy as an art form, overcoming personal challenges, the instant feedback loop of stand-up, cultural differences in humour, and embracing authenticity.

Key Takeaways

Comedy as a Boundary-Pushing Art Form (00:03:58–00:04:34): Jemma and Lui emphasise that comedy should be a safe space to explore controversial or taboo topics, allowing artists to connect authentically with audiences without fear of censorship.
Overcoming Complacency in Creative Work (01:41:08–01:46:02): Jemma’s reflection on her reliance on gigging over writing highlights the importance of pushing past comfort zones to grow as an artist, especially when personal challenges like dyslexia are at play.
The Power of Instant Feedback in Stand-Up (01:50:43–01:52:02): The immediate audience reaction in stand-up comedy provides a unique, addictive feedback loop, but it also requires resilience to adapt material across different crowds and settings.
Authenticity and Self-Love (00:15:51–00:20:12): Both Jemma and Lui share how embracing their authentic selves—whether through nudity at home or on stage—has been liberating, inspired by moments like Lui’s daughter’s carefree toddler days.
Cultural Nuances in Comedy (00:12:59–00:13:47): The discussion of Australia’s “tall poppy syndrome” and New Zealand’s even harsher version underscores how cultural attitudes can shape a comedian’s confidence and reception.

Jemma’s Socials: Follow Jemma on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook at @Jemma_Bailey (Jemma with a J, Bailey with a Y) for her comedy and art.

🫶 Thanks again for listening and watching! Let us know what you think and catch you in the next episode.