Matt Rogers: The Joy of Performance, Balance, and Following the Fun
For almost a decade now, Matt Rogers has entertained audiences and sparked conversations about pop culture through his podcast, Las Culturistas, which he co-hosts with his friend Bowen Yang, a former cast member of Saturday Night Live. Recently, Rogers has taken his passion for performance to the stage with his annual holiday tour, aptly named Christmas in December. As he travels across the country, he showcases his Christmas comedy album, Have You Heard of Christmas?, filling theaters with laughter and festive cheer.
In a recent chat, Rogers shared insights about his tour, the challenges of connecting with listeners in an increasingly digital world, and how he maintains his well-being amid the chaos of showbiz.
The Magic of Tour Life
When asked about his experience on the Christmas tour, Rogers lights up with enthusiasm. “Every year, I say it’s the most fun tour yet,” he explains, pausing as if to savor the moment. This time, he feels it’s genuinely true—thanks to the camaraderie of his touring group, whom he affectionately refers to as his family.
The dynamics of the team are key: “It’s me, my musical director Henry, who’s been with me since 2017, our drummer Derek, bassist Jordan, backup singer Melissa, and tour manager Ethan. We really travel like a pack.” The joy of performing with those he loves makes each show an adventure filled with laughter. This year, they’ll wrap up the tour in Orlando, treating the team to a day at Disney World, a fitting celebration after a month of hard work.
Finding Comfort in Song
When Rogers embarked on this yearly tour, he had his share of apprehensions. But as he puts it, he’s become more comfortable singing than speaking without music. “I’m always bursting into song,” he admits with a playful glint in his eye. His unique blend of stand-up and musical performance sets his shows apart from the traditional comedy circuit. He recalls a childhood desire to excel, saying, “It can’t just be comedy. It also has to be a full-length album.”
Even as he adds new songs and medleys each year, he faces challenges, particularly regarding the vocal demands of his work. “Some songs I wrote at 27 don’t quite match my 35-year-old voice,” he reflects. Fortunately, regular sessions with his vocal coach, Doug Peck, help him navigate these changes and keep his performances fresh.
Balancing Passion and Energy
With his podcast, acting career, and various creative projects, Rogers finds himself busier than ever. “What I try to do is follow the fun,” he says. Following this mantra allows him to focus on what truly excites him: “Whether it’s acting, hosting, or writing—I just like to work.” It’s clear that passion is the fuel behind his success.
Yet, balancing joy and obligation has become a tougher dance. “If you want to be busy, you can be busy,” he acknowledges, admitting that even he, with his seemingly endless energy, sometimes feels worn down. Reflecting on his upbringing, Rogers shares, “My dad’s a PE teacher, my mom’s a hairdresser from Long Island. They were supportive but not familiar with the arts industry, which helped shield me from some of its harsher realities.”
This perspective has made him more discerning about which opportunities to take. “I don’t want to say yes to everything just because I can,” he confesses. “I’m learning to balance my professional goals with my personal well-being.”
Navigating the One-Way Street of Fame
Rogers doesn’t shy away from the complexities of podcasting and social media. He’s keenly aware of the parasocial relationships that develop with listeners, where fans feel a connection without mutual familiarity. “I’m an open book,” he declares, but he also considers the impact of his stories on others involved in his life. Honesty is his policy, yet maintaining respect for those close to him is essential.
He believes the podcast remains enjoyable because he and Bowen still treat their guests with kindness and empathy. “We make them feel like the superstar they are,” he says, emphasizing the importance of positive energy in their conversations. Even as the podcast evolves, Rogers cherishes the lightheartedness it brings.
The State of Hollywood
Rogers provides a candid view of the current state of the entertainment industry. “It gets worse every year,” he insists when discussing audition processes and opportunities. His friends in the industry echo this sentiment, emphasizing the challenges they face, especially with the push for self-taped auditions.
“It’s not the best showcase for performers,” he explains, and the pressure can stifle creativity. Rogers, known for his humor and light-hearted approach to life, still finds room to laugh, despite the industry’s difficulties. “You can’t take yourself too seriously. What am I waiting for? Every opportunity is a chance for joy.”
Prioritizing Self-Care
To keep himself grounded amid the whirlwind of projects, Rogers took a hard look at his friendships and overall well-being. “I have fewer relationships but they’re more meaningful,” he says, reshaping his social circle to focus on those who truly support him.
Sleep, nutrition, and self-care have become his priorities. “I even got a beta blocker prescription,” he shares, noting how it has dramatically improved his quality of life. “Anxiety is physical. Now, I feel rested, hydrated, and more present.”
What Lies Ahead
Looking to the future, Rogers seems to juggle excitement with cautious optimism. “Next year, I want to focus on what I have and stop chasing new things just to chase them,” he shares. With multiple projects in the pipeline—including a movie with Bowen and a book deal—he’s adopting a mindset of nurturing what he’s already started instead of constantly adding more.
His thoughts lead back to the importance of finding joy in the journey. “We all lie to ourselves about what we can handle,” he says, but recognizing his limits has brought him clarity and fulfillment.
Why This Story Resonates
Matt Rogers’ journey reflects a broader narrative that many can relate to—pursuing passion while navigating the complexities of modern life. His approach inspires others to follow their fun, prioritize self-care, and embrace both their successes and struggles. In a world where busyness is often mistaken for fulfillment, Rogers reminds us of the significance of joy in our work and relationships.
As he continues to entertain and connect, his story offers valuable lessons about following your heart while remaining grounded. For anyone embarking on their path, the lesson is clear: it’s okay to take a step back and remember why you started in the first place. With his infectious laughter and genuine spirit, Rogers proves that at the end of the day, following the fun is what truly matters.
