James Schrader

James Schrader is an award-winning stand-up comedian, actor, and writer who has carved out a unique space in modern comedy by bridging the gap between underground clubs and viral internet fame. His journey into the entertainment world began after a major life pivot in 2012 when he moved away from a career in construction. Looking for a completely fresh start, he hit the road to grind through open mic nights across the country and immersed himself in the craft by completing the intensive summer improv program at Chicago's legendary iO Theater.

Eventually making his home base in San Diego, California, Schrader rapidly climbed the ranks of the competitive Southern California comedy scene. His sharp writing and natural, relatable stage presence made him a staple at major comedy hubs, including the La Jolla Comedy Store and The Mad House Comedy Club. The comedy community quickly took notice of his talent; he secured the title of San Diego’s Funniest Person in 2017 and followed that up by placing second overall in the prestigious World Series of Comedy tournament in 2018.

What truly skyrocketed Schrader into the public consciousness was his ability to translate his deadpan, sketch-style comedic timing to digital video campaigns. Partnering with the creative agency Raindrop, he co-wrote and starred as the rugged, blunt frontman for the breakout Dr. Squatch Natural Soap advertisements. The character resonated wildly with viewers, ultimately driving over a billion collective views across platforms and transforming a niche subscription box into a massive mainstream brand.

Today, Schrader continues to balance his live stand-up roots with a variety of writing and production projects. He also connects with fans and fellow creatives on his weekly podcast, Let's Be Human with James Schrader, where he strips away the polished routines to talk about the strange, shared experiences of everyday life.