In this episode of I'll Ask The Questions Around Here, Dr. Joseph Elisha sits down with Dr. Keith Alexander, a Coachella Valley orthodontist whose career journey spans the circus ring, Hollywood soundstages, and a thriving dental practice. Keith shares how his early ambitions in acting led him to clown college, Ringling Bros., and eventually roles alongside Robin Williams and Johnny Depp. The conversation sifts through his transitions from performing arts to orthodontics, how humor remains central to his life and work, and the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship. They also probe the deeper emotional role comedy can play and the importance of living each day with intention and joy.

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[00:00:00] Keith Alexander’s background and introduction

[00:02:00] Moving from upstate New York to Hollywood to pursue acting

[00:04:14] Getting his start in the film industry and working with Robin Williams

[00:07:04] Auditioning for clown college and joining the Ringling Bros. circus

[00:09:29] Earning the clown name "Hallelujah Hal" and his experiences on tour

[00:13:31] Winning “funniest person” award at the circus

[00:15:04] Early roots in performance and discovering theater at age 13

[00:19:10] Using humor in dentistry and daily life

[00:21:30] Creating a joyful workplace for staff and patients

[00:25:36] How personal and emotional depth influence comedic personas

[00:26:05] Reflecting on a key moment acting on The Tonight Show

[00:28:03] Public speaking and interpersonal connection in his dental practice

[00:29:40] High energy personality and feedback from family and staff

[00:31:04] Patient reactions to humor in clinical settings

[00:34:34] Challenges of entrepreneurship and building a practice from scratch

[00:36:17] Misconceptions about dentistry and patient apprehension

[00:38:30] Meeting his wife and the story of their online connection

[00:40:00] Dreaming of running a children’s theater if not a dentist

[00:42:09] Involvement in local theater productions in Palm Springs

[00:45:22] Top three life highlights: marriage, daughter’s birth, opening his practice

[00:48:56] What sets his orthodontic practice apart from others

[00:50:10] Final reflections on joy, connection, and gratitude

Links:

Joseph Elisha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-elisha-m-d-a9b7aab