Meet Antoine Williams of Ohio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Antoine Williams.

Hi Antoine, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into comedy began unexpectedly while I was in college. One day, while sitting in the library studying for an exam, he had a realization: “What’s the point of me studying for this test? I haven’t been to class all semester.” A classmate who was part of a sorority heard me and thought I was funny. She asked if I had ever hosted an event before. I hadn’t, but she offered me $75 to host one. That opportunity became the beginning of “Teddy the Comedian.” What started as a spontaneous moment quickly developed into a passion and a career in entertainment. I have opened up for Spank Horton, Brandon T. Jackson, Morris Chestnut, R&B legends Shai and Ginuwine. I’ve traveled to over 15 states and 50 cities. I’ve had two, one hour comedy specials one entitield “These White People Crazy” and “What You Talkin Bout Ted”.

My journey eventually expanded beyond comedy and into mental health advocacy. After experiencing a difficult breakup, I was struggling emotionally. My co-host of the podcast who is also my barber, encouraged me to approach the situation differently and said “I don’t think comedy can help with this one. You need to be vulnerable and not funny. Your story and your vulnerability could save a lot of people.”

That conversation became a turning point. I began using this platform to have honest conversations about men’s mental health and the experiences that are often left unspoken. What started from one difficult personal experience has grown into Men’s Mental Health 614, which has reached 100 episodes and secured two sponsors. The show has also been broadcasted as far as Australia and Europe. My journey hopefully shows how something that began with jokes and an unexpected opportunity evolved into a platform where vulnerability, authenticity, and personal experience are helping create space for others to heal and speak openly.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Smooth…lol. I’m still working 9-5 so it’s not that smooth, but it’s still fulfilling. Sometimes, my biggest obstacle is myself. Comparison is really the thief of joy. Sometimes, I find myself comparing my journey to others which is why I try to teach others that social media isn’t real. That’s why I tell others that your story is your story. That door is your door, and however it’s opened, it’s opened.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I grew up wanting to become the greatest comedian to ever walk this earth, but along the way, I realized I want to be more than just a comedian, I want to become one of the greatest entertainers I can be. I’m proud of my ability to adapt and connect with people in any environment. My skill set allows me to perform at comedy shows, political events, community gatherings, schools, and so much more. No matter the setting, I’m known for bringing laughter, healing, and smiles.

What I’m most proud of is knowing that my comedy cannot be boxed in. My jokes aren’t limited by race, gender, age, sexuality, or background. Whether someone is Black or white, young or old, gay or straight, I believe laughter is universal. One night, I can be performing at a comedy show; the next, I can be speaking at a political or community event; and the night after that, I could be entertaining students at a school. Being able to walk into different spaces, understand the audience, and create an experience that brings people together is what makes me most proud of the entertainer I’ve become.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I believe mentorship can be difficult to find today because so much of it has become transactional. Mentorship used to feel more genuine; someone would see your potential, believe in you, and simply want to pour into you because they saw something worth developing. Now, in many cases, mentorship has become something people expect to be paid for, and I think that has taken away from the true spirit of mentorship.

That said, I don’t believe we should become closed off to mentorship altogether. When someone genuinely wants to invest in you, share their knowledge, or help you grow in a positive way, you have to be willing to receive it. Sometimes, the most meaningful mentorship comes from people who simply see something in you and want to help you become better.

I’ll always give it up to my DJ, “DJ Dommy Styles”, for believing in me from the beginning. Even when I didn’t always agree with his methods, he continued to fight for me, advocate for me, and show up for me. To this day, he continues to put on for me and support my journey.

There are so many people I could name who have played an important role in my growth, including Wali, Ms. Andrea, Marlan Ballard, and Mr. Pringles, just to name a few. Each of them has contributed to my journey in their own way, but more importantly, they are among the people who made sure I never gave up.

I also have to recognize my brothers Kris and Brandon. There were times when quitting felt like the only option, but they reminded me that quitting was never the answer, sometimes, I just needed to rest. Their support helped me understand that taking a break doesn’t mean giving up; sometimes, it’s what allows you to keep going.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyteddythecomedian?igsi=M3hsNDV3MWNwMG5y&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthmondays614?igsh=MWFlMXg0Zzl2YnRy&utm_source=qr
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoine-williams-1a876462?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios
• Other: llcteddythecomedian@gmail.com