Successful Failure: Lessons Learned Flat on My Face

by Kevin Fredericks

New York Times bestselling author and viral stand-up star Kevin Fredericks (aka KevOnStage) turns his most cringe-worthy moments into comedy gold, sharing how the most embarrassing failures of his life put him on the path to success.

As a kid, Kevin Fredericks noticed something If he made people laugh, the grown-ups would let him stay up late. In church plays, his commitment to the role of Goliath led to a busted lip, and the audience couldn't get enough. He dreamed of becoming a performer, of finding that first big break that would launch him into the bright lights of pop culture fame. But as he soon found, the road to the life we want is longer, weirder, more embarrassing, and more hilarious than we think.

In Successful Failure, the NAACP Image Award-winning comedian recounts hilarious stories and sincere insight from his adventures (and misadventures) trying to make it in life. From performing under an alias to avoid getting fired from his suit-and-tie day job, to the night when he broke a chair onstage and quit stand-up for six months, to pooping his pants on a bus next to his future wife, to the time he started a clothing line called “Dreams Don’t Die” (they sure do if the merch doesn’t sell), Kev reminds readers that while we might not be The Rock, Warren Buffett, or Kevin Hart, we’re all out here trying, and that’s okay.

Laugh-out-loud in one moment and perceptive in the next, Successful Failure is a wild ride from one of America’s funniest comics and a sendup of our ideals around hustle culture and success.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Audiobook

304 pages, Hardcover

Published September 23, 2025

Reviews

[JustJJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

 Blog | Instagram

Rating: 4 stars

Fans of Kevin Fredericks will enjoy the heartfelt and entertaining look at his journey in 'Successful Failure,' though it wasn't quite as funny or impactful as I had hoped.

Cover: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Content: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Narration & Audio: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

"I’m not being defined by failure, I’m being developed by it."

As a longtime fan of KevOnStage (Kevin Fredericks), I picked up this book expecting a hilarious read filled with valuable life lessons. For the most part, Kevin delivers this. He shares key moments from his childhood as well as the highs and lows that shaped his path to success. The easy, conversational tone is further enhanced by Kevin's authentic delivery in the audiobook. However, I found the content a bit disjointed, and the humour didn't quite meet my expectations, so I wasn't entirely captivated by this book.

"Struggle can motivate just as intensely as it can depress and infuriate."


You can also find more of my thoughts and discussion questions on my blog! - I'd love to hear your thoughts!

[Sihle 🪻🌸🌷🌼🌝 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was watching the Kirk Franklin YouTube episode with KevOnStage and it reminded me why I adore this person. He is truly wholesome. His masculinity is not performative, he is different from other men because of his open-mindedness and strong heart. It shows in his love for his wife, kids, friends, family, and especially in his work. I cry every time he talks about his brother, may he continue resting.

Anyway, the book…

Successful Failure is exactly what I expected from Kev: honest, funny, grounded, and quietly emotional in the best way. It feels like sitting down with that one friend who can make you laugh while also gently dragging you toward your purpose. Kev doesn’t romanticize the grind or pretend that every setback is some inspirational Pinterest quote waiting to happen. He tells you straight: sometimes you fail, sometimes you fall apart a little, and sometimes you keep going anyway because the dream deserves at least one more try.

What I loved most were the little moments where he admits his insecurities, talks about the pressure of being “the funny one,” and still shows how much heart he puts into everything, his craft, his marriage, and the people he creates with. The book reminds you that “success” isn’t a straight line, and that faith, community, and stubborn hope matter just as much as talent.

It’s a light, enjoyable read, but with that signature Kev warmth that hits you in the chest when you least expect it. A solid reminder that failing doesn’t disqualify you, sometimes it’s literally part of the assignment.

[Raymond · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Kevin's new book Successful Failure: Lessons Learned Flat on My Face. The book covers various funny and serious episodes in his life from his adolescent years to now. He tells of his successes and failures as a comedian, husband, and father. I've been a fan of his since he was in the group The Playmakers. Even though I have followed his content and listened to his podcast for years, there were still things about him that were new to me in this book. For example, his time in ROTC, brand deal opportunities, the details of the failure of his app, etc. His most impactful stories were about the times he was offered opportunities that would have paid him well but would have conflicted with his values and conscience. He not only tells what decisions he made but also why.

The chapters are short, which helps make this book a fast read. I alternated between reading the physical copy of the book and listening to the audio. I prefer the audio because Kevin is the narrator, and he brings his stories to life more effectively in audio than on the page. Overall, you will enjoy this book. It has many laugh-out-loud moments and, of course, life lessons that you can apply to your own respective lives.

[♡*WithLove, Reesie*♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this audiobook. I found myself chuckling aloud at stories while listening at work.

If you're a fan of KevOnStage and listen to his podcast, Here's the Thing, then you'd be familiar with some of these stories but the book gives a little more detail and some behind the scenes.

If you're not aware or a fan, I still think this is a good book for motivation and inspiration in hearing about his losses, failures, mistakes, and just bad judgements but bouncing back and continuing to press forward towards your dreams.

I do wish there were more stories (because he has an interesting life and family) and a little more details (I get it, can't name drop everybody lol) but overall it was a good time.

I would read again. I would recommend.

*advanced audiobook courtesy of Peguin Random House Audio

[Charnae Ross · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was really excited to dive into Successful Failure because I absolutely love KevOnStage and truly admire his journey and career. Unfortunately, the book didn’t land for me the way I hoped it would. It ended up being a slow read, and I struggled to stay engaged. The chapter order felt a bit all over the place, which made it difficult to follow the overall message or flow.

I genuinely wanted to finish the book, but I found myself putting it down too often and ultimately didn’t make it all the way through. That said, this is just my personal experience—I’m still a big fan of Kev and continue to support his work in other areas. This book just didn’t resonate with me in the way I expected.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin Fredericks is one of my favorite internet people. I enjoyed this memoir a lot.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Successful Failure
Lessons I Learned Flat on my Face

I Picked Up This Book Because: I’ve enjoyed other work from the author.

Media Type: Audiobook
Source: CC Public Library
Dates Read: 10/31/25 - 11/3/25
Rating: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Kevin Fredericks

The Story:

I came across Kevin’s social media a few years ago and have immensely enjoyed watching his progress through a truly tough industry. Watching his family grow and travel all over the world in pursuit of his dream. Of course, you only see so much on social media, so it was great to hear his experience first-hand and get to see the things social media does not show.

[Jay DeMoir · Rating 2 out of 5]

I find KevOnStage hilarious and after enjoying the first book, I just knew I’d enjoy this too. That wasn’t the case.

Unfortunately this book didn’t land the way I’d hoped it would. It ended up being a slow read for me and I struggled to stay engaged with it. Nothing seemed noteworthy or new. A lot of this was things I’d heard before.
However, I didn’t know about Isaiah being in a movie when he was a kid so I’ll watch that with my sons. But other than that, this felt disjointed.

The chapters didn’t really flow together and outside of stories about Jason or his kids, this didn’t resonate with me.

1.5 stars

[Monique B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love me some Kev! This book was funny ("laugh out loud" funny) and was written in his unique, humerous tone. I could hear his voice in my head as I read each page 😂. Yup, he wrote this!

Kev admits his mistakes he's made along the way & how that hasn't stopped him from going after his dreams. I learned more about him & his upbringing, how he started out doing comedy & even about his family. I appreciated his honesty & him admitting that he still trying to figure it all out!

If you follow KevOnStage on social media and enjoy his content, then this book is a must.

[Ebony | ebonylovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love KevOnStage and have followed for years, love his podcast Here’s the thing and love Churchy as well.

I was really excited to read this one and Kev did not disappoint. While I have heard some of the stories before listening to his podcast with his wife, or from their book, but there were stories I didn’t recall hearing before like cussing siblings or doo doo that were hilarious.

Overall I really enjoyed and would absolutely recommend.

[Deondra Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and reading about his journey. It's so relatable to read about a "regular, everyday kind of person" and see how they made things happen for them from business perspective. I also enjoyed reading about snippets of his personal life.

[Alissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great on audio! Kevin is hilarious.

[TaKenya Hampton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Journey Through Life’s Messiest Moments

Look, if you’re going into “Successful Failure” expecting some profound self-help book with 10 steps to success, you’re gonna be disappointed. But if you want Kevin Fredericks to literally tell you about the time he pooped himself? Then buckle up, because this audiobook DELIVERS.

First off, audiobook format is the ONLY way to experience this one. Kevin narrating his own story makes all the difference. I just wouldn’t imagine it would translate the same way on a page. I could be wrong.

The stories are absolutely hilarious. From childhood mishaps (yes, the poop incident is real) to his first time “smoking a weed” (his words, not mine), Kevin has a way of making even the most embarrassing moments comedy gold.

What really got me though was how much love comes through for his family. You can tell this man genuinely adores his wife and kids, and even through all the comedy, there’s this beautiful thread of someone who never gave up on his dreams but also never stopped being responsible to the people who depended on him. That balance is inspiring as hell.

If you’re looking for takeaways or life lessons you can apply, this ain’t it. It’s a memoir through and through - Kevin’s telling HIS story, not trying to teach you how to replicate it. Some people might find that frustrating if they picked this up thinking it was a business or motivational book.

Solid 4/5 stars for me. It’s funny, heartfelt, and genuinely entertaining. Just make sure you get the audiobook version and go in expecting laughs and life stories, not a roadmap to success. Kevin’s journey is messy, real, and absolutely worth the listen.

Perfect for anyone who loves comedy memoirs or is already a KevOnStage fan!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[Lindsey Arnold · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️/3️⃣—> I rate this 3 out of 5 stars.

I’d honestly rate this closer to a 3.5.

I want to start by saying that I love KevOnStage. I’ve followed him since the early Playmakas days, and as someone who also grew up a church kid, his comedy and perspective resonate with me. Because of that, I was genuinely excited to read this book, but unfortunately it didn’t quite meet my expectations.

I was hoping for more depth and reflection, especially given the premise. I expected each “failure” to be paired with clearer lessons or takeaways, but many of the stories felt less like failures and more like everyday life lessons, or moments of youthful ignorance. That said, I did appreciate the grace Kevin extended to himself throughout the book, and the final chapter did a nice job of tying his experiences together with a meaningful concluding lesson.

One of the strongest parts of the memoir was the chapter about his late brother. Those stories were heartfelt and sincere, and I appreciated being given a glimpse into their relationship and the love they shared. I also expected to laugh more than I did. While there were moments that made me smile or chuckle, there was nothing that truly had me laughing out loud.

Overall, this isn’t a bad memoir, but it isn’t a standout one either. I think this book is best suited for readers who are already fans of KevOnStage. If you’re unfamiliar with him, you may struggle to find it engaging. However, if you’re looking for a quick, easy read and want a surface level look into Kevin’s life without diving too deep, you may still find it enjoyable.

[LiteraryMarie · Rating 2 out of 5]

You may not recognize him under his guhment name, Kevin Fredericks. So allow me to present to you: KevOnStage. Successful Failure: Lessons Learned Flat on My Face chronicles his path to super stardom. He quickly learned from a young age the power of making people laugh. But as with anyone, the closer we get to our dreams, the harder the road gets. Kev lays it all bare in this new book with no shame. From pooping on himself, to partnering with a barber to supply everyone in the hood with credit cards, to going viral as a standup comedian.

Successful Failure has its LOL moments. But it is more-so about Kev's journey to become the comedic star he is today. I expected more lessons and motivational passages with an element of humor. Instead this book is more like a timeline of Kev's misadventures that led to a career and a final goodbye to jokes he retired. Nothing in particular stood out enough to make it a must-read.

Happy Early Pub Day, Kevin Fredericks! Successful Failure will be available Tuesday, September 23.

Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie

[Becki · Rating 5 out of 5]

It happens so often that people seemingly become "stars" overnight, but in reality there have been years and years of incremental successes and flat-out failures, and that was certainly the case for Kevin Fredericks. KevOnStage will do whatever he has to do for a laugh, even reveal embarrassing stories about himself, and he does that here in spades, from talking about how he pooped his pants on a public bus with his then-girlfriend next to him to how he lost $150k on a business deal. (Both scenarios could have been avoided if he had listened to his now-wife, Melissa, of course, and this feels like a great time to remind you that Kev and Lissa have also written a fantastic book on marriage, lol!)

Listen, I love KevOnStage and his gorgeous (and very long-suffering!) wife, and this book made me laugh out loud, but it also got me teary on multiple occasions. Despite being a quick and funny read, it also poignantly speaks to the importance of family, integrity, and perseverance. Fans of the comedian will love this inside look into Kev's journey. Absolutely recommend!

I received an ARC of this book. My thanks to the author, publisher, and #NetGalley.
#SuccessfulFailure

[Charell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kevin Fredericks (aka KevOnStage) delivers an engaging, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt memoir in Successful Failure. What stood out most to me was how he told his stories—equal parts humor and honesty—that made even the most awkward or painful moments feel relatable. His willingness to laugh at himself while still sharing the deeper lessons behind each experience makes this a refreshing and motivating read.

I especially appreciated how many of his stories reached back to his childhood. It makes the book not only inspiring for adults chasing their dreams, but also something that younger readers could connect to as they start thinking about their own paths. The mix of vulnerability and comedy is what makes this book shine—it’s not just about success, but about all the stumbles along the way that shape you.

If you enjoy memoirs that balance humor with encouragement, this is definitely worth picking up.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance reader e-book in exchange for my honest review.

[Nia Ita · Rating 4 out of 5]

BEWARE: Do not read this in public if you don't want to look crazy. For the majority of this book, I was laughing out loud. On the train. In cafes. While walking down the street. Darrell Dawsey did a phenomenal job of capturing Kev's voice on the page. It was like listening to an audiobook; that's how clearly his voice rang off the page. (I also appreciate how Kev gave Darrell credit at the end of his book, unlike most celebrities and influencers who pretend to do all the writing on their own)

If you find Kevin Fredericks' (aka Kevonstage) content funny, then you will enjoy this book. You will get some background on his story of becoming and how many times he quit/failed. His candidness in a world that is hyper-focused on near-perfect curation is refreshing. He's also incredibly transparent about numbers in terms of what he was making at different stages in his life, which is interesting from an entrepreneur and creative standpoint. Worth the read and/or listen.

[Sipho · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This was a fabulously entertaining listen. As a medium time follower of KevOnStage, I enjoyed listening to him telling these stories of his come up - some which he has told before. His success in recent years is testament to persistence and a strong work ethic.

The thing is though...parts of the book didn't feel like they were related to the big idea of "lessons learned from failure". Like there's a whole chapter about how it will take very little for Kev to snitch. OK?

As hilarious and fun as this book was to listen to, it did also feel a little disjointed.

All that said, it's a really light and easy read and you'll probably chuckle more than a few times.

[Tia Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

KevOnStage fans, this one’s for you 🙌🏾. In Successful Failure, Kevin Fredericks proves success doesn’t happen overnight it’s years of wins, losses, and hilarious fails. He keeps it real with embarrassing stories. This book had me cracking up one minute and getting teary the next. Beyond the laughs, it’s about family, perseverance, and staying true to yourself. Quick, funny, and surprisingly moving definitely recommend!
✨ Releases Sept 23rd. Huge thanks to Convergent Books Via NetGalley for the ARC all Opinions are my own.

[Kyra · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ As a long time fan of KevOnStage, I really enjoyed this book. It actually read how he sounds which is a testament to this book being true to him. He shared many experiences, from childhood to recent years, that you still wouldn’t have heard about as a follower of his content.

I found myself laughing at many parts and inspired by other parts. The chapters were short which made for a quick read. I was expecting for each “failure” to be accompanied with a little more insight and for the lessons to be fleshed out a bit more. Overall a great read!

[Keshia Cannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this book because it was narrated by Kev so it made it so much more funnier hearing him tell his stories. As an avid listener “Here’s the Thing” there was so hilarious stories I’ve never heard before weaved into Kev’s journey of being a successful failure that has me literally laughing out loud!!! But through all the hilarious stories, failures, & successes I definitely took some gems away from this book.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Seems like a genuinely great guy even more than i see on social media. I enjoyed hearing the ups and downs of his journey. His resilience to keep going after failure is inspiring. I am trying to get to that point where i can view failure as a lesson and opportunity for growth instead of just feeling like a failure. I also appreciate that he never compromised his faith to get ahead. Hope he has much more success going forward.

[MEL Oh My That’s a lot of Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Successful Failure is motivating in the most refreshing way. It flips the script on setbacks and shows how missteps can become stepping stones instead of dead ends. The insights are practical, easy to digest, and genuinely encouraging without feeling preachy. Even when it challenges your mindset, it does so with warmth and clarity. You walk away feeling capable, inspired, and a little braver about trying again. Definitely a confidence-boosting read 📘✨

[Rhema Limon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Net Galley for this copy.
Let’s just say it really feels like Kevin is in front of you, you’re out for coffee with him and he tells you all the ways he messed up.
He describes ways his mess ups have lead him to where he is now.

My favorites were the intro …. And the Doo doo chapters.

I wish it had a little more wisdom?

[Rashad A Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 out of 5 stars because I expected this to be a self help book. instead it was Kev telling stories on how he failed at things until he was successful. overall a funny book and if you're a fan it's great to hear stories you wouldn't have known about otherwise

[Vincent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Been a fan since the Playmaker days and I enjoyed this. His voice is him and I like that he didn't hold anything back from his successes to his failures. Growing up similar and in WA I was able to connect with a lot what he was saying.

[Raindrops And Readers · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 🌟Listened to this on audible and def. LOL'd more than once 😂 I loved hearing Kev’s story and journey, just wished for a few more clear takeaways, but still love me some Kev! 👏🏾👏🏾 oh, and I'm glad he shed more light into the pumpkin pie debacle!😫 lol

[Lauren Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for any dreamer! A raw, funny, and honest insight into the many trials and lessons behind success. A dreamer’s manifesto to fall forward and never give up no matter how many times that means getting back up.

[Kylea Woodley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the book. It’s full of life lessons and encouragement to keep going. I was reminded that life is lifing even for those to seem to have it all. Great read. Perfect blend of comedy and sincerity.

Thank you for sharing your story.