Where does your inspiration come from?

It’s pretty autobiographical. I have a bunch of turdballs in my family, and I take real stories about trying to follow your dreams, and other people trying to shit on your dreams. I say some of the darker things that other people might not say, but I get away with it because it’s all in how you say it.

You’ve known Stephen Colbert eight years, how does he figure into your career?

He actually was the very first person I met in the entertainment business. He suggested I get myself into trouble, which meant standup and improv, so I did that, and for the next year he called four or five times to say, “Hey, are you still out there?” He was cool enough to stay on me, and that was a big motivating factor.

What’s the funniest word?

I have a bunch I make up, and I don’t think they’re funny, but people laugh the way I say them. Like I’ll say, “What’s up, guys? What’s up, femiNANs?” And “midgetism”—sometimes that gets a laugh.

Jarrod Harris July 26-31, 9 p.m., $20-$25. The Comedy Stop at the Sahara. comedystop.com.