Finding the Funny: Leadership Tips From a Comedian

What really happens when a keynote speaker doesn't get the gig? In this episode, Jan pulls back the curtain on the wild, weird, and sometimes downright baffling feedback she's received after not being chosen for events. From strange selection methods to unexpected competition, you'll hear behind-the-scenes stories that are equal parts hilarious and head-scratching. If you've ever wondered what goes on in the speaker selection process—or just want a good laugh—you don't want to miss this one.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com  Jan McInnis is a top change management keynote speaker and comedian. She uses short funny stories to emphasize her tips on how businesses can use humor to handle change. Jan is a top conference keynote speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/   Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations   Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association   Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations   Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,   Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations   Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

Curious what not to do when asking for career advice? In this behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of humor keynotes and professional speaking, veteran keynote speaker Jan McInnis shares a wild ride of missteps, missed calls, and misplaced expectations—all sparked by a surprise request from an old comedy colleague. It's a true tale filled with lessons on timing, tact, and how not to burn bridges before you've even crossed them. https://www.TheWorkLady.com  Jan McInnis is a top change management keynote speaker and comedian. She uses short funny stories to emphasize her tips on how businesses can use humor to handle change. Jan is a top conference keynote speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations

Breaking into a crowded field can feel daunting, but persistence pays off in surprising ways. In this behind-the-scenes glimpse into a comedy career, you'll hear about the thrill of receiving that very first joke check from Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue—without even knowing which joke sold. Not only did I sell jokes to to him, BUT I also got some cool industry perks, memorable introductions, and an unforgettable moment of validation. https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.

Trying to get stage time at the Laugh Factory in L.A. is a big deal—especially if you're hoping to get in front of Jamie Masada, the guy who helped launch tons of comedy careers. This story's all about the hustle, calling in favors, and navigating the weird world of showbiz politics. It's a real-life peek into how things almost happen in Hollywood—and what you learn when they don't. https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

People always ask what it's like being a woman in the male-dominated world of stand-up, and the truth is—it's mostly fine… but there are a couple things that drive me nuts. This is a fun peek into what what I've had people say to my face, and how I've handled it! https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations

Imagine flying to Hawaii for a humor keynote, only to have everything shift in a way you never saw coming. As a keynote speaker, comedian, and corporate speaker, I know that timing, adaptability, and engaging an audience are everything—but this was a whole new challenge. With the pressure on and no room for error, I had to think fast and use comedy in business to keep the energy high. What happened next proved that sometimes, the best moments in public speaking come when you least expect them, and that workplace humor can turn any situation into a success. https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.

In this episode, comedian and keynote speaker Jan McInnis takes us behind the scenes of a high-stakes convention show that could make or break her career. With pressure mounting from every angle—an intimidating crowd, a skeptical agent, and a fellow comic with a history—she had no idea how the night would unfold. Tune in for a gripping and hilarious story about resilience, surprises, and finding the funny in unexpected places.   https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/   Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations   Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association   Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations   Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,   Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations   Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the wheel of a rideshare? As someone who relies on Uber and Lyft for travel, I've had some eye-opening experiences—some hilarious, some frustrating, and some downright nerve-wracking. From reckless drivers to unexpected fare demands and surprising last-minute changes, these rides have taught me a lot about safety, preparation, and the importance of professionalism. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just curious about the wild world of ridesharing, take a listen to the things that happened to me LAST YEAR! https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.    

Ever thought you could conquer anything with just a mix of enthusiasm and naivety? In this inspiring and humorous episode, Jan McInnis shares her journey from an ill-prepared novice hiker to an experienced explorer of over 25 national parks. Through tales of daunting trails like Angel's Landing and Old Rag, Jan reflects on the surprising life lessons these adventures offer. This episode is packed with laughs, relatable missteps, and valuable leadership insights on fostering enthusiasm while offering the right guidance. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, a leader looking to motivate your team, or someone who loves a great story of perseverance and humor, this episode is for you. Discover Jan's "recipe for success" and hear how a simple blend of courage and preparation can lead to big achievements—on trails and in life. Tune in to learn, laugh, and maybe even be inspired to visit a national park! https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

https://www.TheWorkLady.com  Money matters can bring out the best and the worst in any industry, but in the unpredictable world of comedy, payment stories often take on a life of their own. While underpayment and non-payment are hot topics, few talk about the unexpected twist of overpayment. What would you do if you were paid more than you earned—keep it, or come clean? In this episode I share how I handled things.   Jan McInnis is a top change management keynote speaker and comedian. She uses short funny stories to emphasize her tips on how businesses can use humor to handle change. Jan is a top conference keynote speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/

Here's a quick story about a rental car that almost killed me this year! AND I offer 4 quick things to check on a rental car that might just save your life.   https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  

Sometimes you get an opportunity out of the blue that is HUGE; Here's a quick story of one of mine.  https://www.TheWorkLady.com  Jan McInnis is a top change management keynote speaker and comedian. She uses short funny stories to emphasize her tips on how businesses can use humor to handle change. Jan is a top conference keynote speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Association. Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securitie Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.

A week of bad shows will kill your spirit. My week working with Larry the Cable Guy saved my career, AND I learned a valuable lesson about failure. Here's a quick story from my days on the road in comedy clubs. https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and even the Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations  

I had my plane tickets and I was BOOKED. But other stuff happened. Somewhere out there, there's a house wife in Texas who messed up my big break!! Here's the short version of a moment in my life that hurts! https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/   Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

Who knew attending a Cher concert would lead to a life in comedy for ME! AND it was so full of weird coincedences that you just can't make it up. Take a 2 minute listen as to how I got the nerve to get verbalize my goals, which led to the Hollywood Improv. https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic. Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.    

Do you really want to be famous is a quick post about the weekend I worked with Jon Stewart at the Punchline Comedy Club in Atlanta. It gave me a unique perspective on being famous and brought up a few questions. https://www.TheWorkLady.com  Jan McInnis is a top motivational keynote speaker, comedian, master of ceremonies and comedy writer. She uses short funny stories to emphasize her tips on how businesses can use humor to handle change. Jan is a top conference keynote speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council,

I've been hit up for money before from various people, but listen in to this quick story about an agency who tried to get some money from me to help them promote me. It was ridiculous! I tried helping them out, but in the end, it really wasn't worth it. It's funny business! Learn leadership & business skills to deal with people & handle life's curveballs. A professional comedian offers laughs & practical tips. Funny comedian & top keynote speaker Jan McInnis's unique, fun and useful ideas will help you develop solutions to your own work and life issues. Jan is an established comedy writer. She's sold material for Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue on the Tonight Show as well as many other people, places and groups – radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (her parents are proud).  For over 25+ years she's traveled country as a comedian, keynote speaker, and Master of Ceremonies. She's shared her clean comedy with thousands of organizations, and her business tips with thousands of corporations and associations. She's been onstage in front of everyone from the Mayo Clinic to several of the Federal Reserve Banks. Jan is also currently co-starring in the Baby Boomer Comedy Show, touring theatres with comedian Kent Rader, and she is also an excellent Master of Ceremonies! Jan is the author of two books "Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers & Crowds," and "Convention Comedian – Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs." Her short stories can be heard on her popular podcast: "Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes."    

There are some lists you want to make it on in comedy and some you don't. Here's a quick story about the time I got on a very good list! Funny comedian & top keynote speaker Jan McInnis's unique, fun and useful ideas will help you develop solutions to your own work and life issues.  Jan is an established comedy writer. She's sold material for Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue on the Tonight Show as well as many other people, places and groups – radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (her parents are proud).  For over 25+ years she's traveled country as a comedian, keynote speaker, and Master of Ceremonies. She's shared her clean comedy with thousands of organizations, and her business tips with thousands of corporations and associations. She's been onstage in front of everyone from the Mayo Clinic to several of the Federal Reserve Banks. Jan is also currently co-starring in the Baby Boomer Comedy Show, touring theatres with comedian Kent Rader, and she is also an excellent Master of Ceremonies!  Jan is the author of two books "Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers & Crowds," and "Convention Comedian – Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs." Her short stories can be heard on her popular podcast: "Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes." 

Cursing on stage is usally a BIG no-no for corporate events, BUT here's a quick story about the ONE time I did it and it worked!!! In fact I got booked for MORE shows. Funny comedian & top keynote speaker Jan McInnis's unique, fun and useful ideas will help you develop solutions to your own work and life issues.    Jan is an established comedy writer. She's sold material for Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue on the Tonight Show as well as many other people, places and groups – radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (her parents are proud).     For over 25+ years she's traveled country as a comedian, keynote speaker, and Master of Ceremonies. She's shared her clean comedy with thousands of organizations, and her business tips with thousands of corporations and associations. She's been onstage in front of everyone from the Mayo Clinic to several of the Federal Reserve Banks. Jan is also currently co-starring in the Baby Boomer Comedy Show, touring theatres with comedian Kent Rader, and she is also an excellent Master of Ceremonies!    Jan is the author of two books "Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers & Crowds," and "Convention Comedian – Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs." Her short stories can be heard on her popular podcast: "Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes."    #topkeynotespeaker #findingthefunnyinchange #humorkeynote #funneyfemalespeaker #funnymotivationalspeaker #cleancomedian  #funnykeynotespeaker #inspirationalkeynotespeaker #changemanagementspeaker #femalecomedians #femalestandupcomedians #femalecomedian #bestfemalecomedian #topfemalecomedian #bestfemalestandupcomedians #changemanagementkeynotespeaker #changespeaker #keynote #keynotespeaker #comedyemcee #masterofceremonies #leadershipkeynote #masterofceremonies #comedyemcee #comedianemcee #emcee #funnymasterofceremonies   topkeynotespeaker findingthefunnyinchange humorkeynote funneyfemalespeaker funnymotivationalspeaker cleancomedian  funnykeynotespeaker inspirationalkeynotespeaker changemanagementspeaker femalecomedians femalestandupcomedians femalecomedian bestfemalecomedian topfemalecomedian bestfemalestandupcomedians changemanagementkeynotespeaker changespeaker keynote keynotespeaker comedyemcee masterofceremonies leadershipkeynote masterofceremonies comedyemcee comedianemcee emcee funnymasterofceremonies   topkeynotespeaker, findingthefunnyinchange, humorkeynote, funneyfemalespeaker, funnymotivationalspeaker, cleancomedian, funnykeynotespeaker, inspirationalkeynotespeaker, changemanagementspeaker, femalecomedians, femalestandupcomedians, femalecomedian, bestfemalecomedian, topfemalecomedian, bestfemalestandupcomedians, changemanagementkeynotespeaker, changespeaker, keynote, keynotespeaker, comedyemcee, masterofceremonies, leadershipkeynote, masterofceremonies, comedyemcee, comedianemcee, emcee, funnymasterofceremonies      

It's funny business! And today Jan shares a quick story from her comedy club days about doing radio . . . or NOT doing radio. Take a quick break and pick up a quick tip.

Funny comedian & top keynote speaker Jan McInnis's unique, fun and useful ideas will help you develop solutions to your own work and life issues.  This episode is what she learned from the drunkest emcee gig she ever had to do! Jan is an established comedy writer. She's sold material for Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue on the Tonight Show as well as many other people, places and groups – radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (her parents are proud).  For over 20+ years she's traveled country as a comedian, keynote speaker, and Master of Ceremonies. She's shared her clean comedy with thousands of organizations, and her business tips with thousands of corporations and associations. She's been onstage in front of everyone from the Mayo Clinic to several of the Federal Reserve Banks. Jan is the author of two books "Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers & Crowds," and "Convention Comedian – Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs." Her short stories can be heard on her popular podcast: "Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes." 

It's funny business! Learn leadership & business skills to deal with people & handle life's curveballs. A professional comedian offers laughs & practical tips. Check out Jan's website here. Check out more stories on her Facebook Business page here. Today Jan shares one of the keys of her success! It's funny business! Learn leadership & business skills to deal with people & handle life's curveballs. A professional comedian offers laughs & practical tips. Funny comedian & top keynote speaker Jan McInnis's unique, fun and useful ideas will help you develop solutions to your own work and life issues. Jan is an established comedy writer. She's sold material for Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue on the Tonight Show as well as many other people, places and groups – radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (her parents are proud). For over 25+ years she's traveled country as a comedian, keynote speaker, and Master of Ceremonies. She's shared her clean comedy with thousands of organizations, and her business tips with thousands of corporations and associations. She's been onstage in front of everyone from the Mayo Clinic to several of the Federal Reserve Banks. Jan is also currently co-starring in the Baby Boomer Comedy Show, touring theatres with comedian Kent Rader, and she is also an excellent Master of Ceremonies! Jan is the author of two books "Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers & Crowds," and "Convention Comedian – Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs." Her short stories can be heard on her popular podcast: "Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes." What's in store every week?

Short stories from Jan's comedy and keynote speaking career with unique tips for business.   https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington,

Two quick jokes from the news today. Check them out!

Jan's Website3 news jokes under 1 minute. I've written and sold a ton of jokes from news stories. Nowadays I just do them for myself because I think they're funny. News stores are an easy way to add humor - just stay away from politics and messy stories like that. Oh, and don't be mean or do stories about catastropies . . . stupid criminals are fair game! For more of Jan's Humor, check out her website, her blog, her podcast or the other many ways that people can listen but don't! LOL. Enjoy your journey!

Murder Investigations and Big Business are connected! At least that's what funny motivational speaker, comedian and business humorist Jan McInnis says. Her latest article titled "Five Things I Learned From Forensic Files" shows what business leaders can learn from crime and murder scene investigations. Forensics, not just crime but other types of forensics such as accounting forensics, encompasses diverse fields such as DNA analysis, ballistics, toxicology, and fingerprint identification. Investigators employ forensics to reconstruct events, identify victims and suspects, and establish timelines. By meticulously examining blood spatter patterns, examining fibers, and studying wounds, analyzing financial statements, and other things, experts can piece together crucial details. And these details many times lead to an ARREST!  You probably won't need to arrest anyone in business, BUT there some take-aways from Forensic Files and other crime investigation shows, that you can use in in business and in your personal life. Here's an excerpt below. Take a 2 minute humor break and click here to read the whole article or https://theworklady.com/five-things-i-learned-from-forensic-files/ ONE: The biggest killer of people isn't disease or accidents: it's life insurance policies! We've all thought about murdering our spouse or partner, usually when there's snoring involved and the payday is a good night's sleep. But some people who actually murder are looking for million-dollar insurance paydays. LESSON: With the right incentive, people will do most anything. Remember that when rewarding employees and find out what makes THEM happy. My recent Lyft driver said he left his last company, as manager of a call center, because the rewards were things like a keychain and a water bottle. His prior company had given him a paid day off, which he appreciated much more. But a trinket for busting your butt, especially at a call center? Nope. He'd rather drive strangers to the airport.   Check out this humor article and other articles on my website and JanFanS.com facebook business page.

It's funny business! Learn leadership & business skills to deal with people & handle life's curveballs. A professional comedian offers laughs & practical tips. Today Jan shares one of the keys of her success! It's funny business! Learn leadership & business skills to deal with people & handle life's curveballs. A professional comedian offers laughs & practical tips. Funny comedian & top keynote speaker Jan McInnis's unique, fun and useful ideas will help you develop solutions to your own work and life issues. Jan is an established comedy writer. She's sold material for Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue on the Tonight Show as well as many other people, places and groups – radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (her parents are proud). For over 25+ years she's traveled country as a comedian, keynote speaker, and Master of Ceremonies. She's shared her clean comedy with thousands of organizations, and her business tips with thousands of corporations and associations. She's been onstage in front of everyone from the Mayo Clinic to several of the Federal Reserve Banks. Jan is also currently co-starring in the Baby Boomer Comedy Show, touring theatres with comedian Kent Rader, and she is also an excellent Master of Ceremonies! Jan is the author of two books "Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers & Crowds," and "Convention Comedian – Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs." Her short stories can be heard on her popular podcast: "Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes." What's in store every week? Monday – Friday – Jan offers a quick tip for managing work and personal life Saturday – a tip for Finding the Funny . . . Jan will help you find the funny in your life with a quick tip on using humor Sunday – It's time to sit back and enjoy a minute of Jan's clean comedy from her shows Jan has shared her humor keynotes with groups such as... Mayo Clinic Abbott Pharmaceuticals Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals Kaiser-Permanente Davita Dialysis Centers Blue Cross Blue Shield National Council for Prescription Drug Companies Organization of Nurse Leaders Federal Reserve Banks BDO Accounting Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group Merrill Lynch American Institute of CPAs National League of Cities International Worker's Compensation Fund LA County Management Association Social Security Administration Southern California Public Power Authority U.S. Air Force American Heart Associations Go Red For Women luncheons Speaking of Women's Health International Association of Administrative Professionals Toyota Women's Conference Women in Insurance and Financial Services Soroptimists Women in Film & Video Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event Breast cancer awareness School Business Officials associations School superintendent associations School boards associations State education associations Community college associations Head Start associations Texas adult protective services Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals International Association of Emergency Managers Disney Emergency Managers COPIC Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council Risk associations American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Associations NIGP Public procurement associations Public purchasing associations correctional associations public utilities public personnel associations rural housing associations community action associations Health Information Management Associations Healthcare Financial Management Associations Hospitals Home Healthcare Associations Assisted Living Associations Medical Group Management Associations Healthcare Risk Associations Healthcare Quality Associations state emergency management associations insurance groups state education associations community college associations school administrators associations school nutrition associations principal associations library associations

Funny comedian & top keynote speaker Jan McInnis's unique, fun and useful ideas will help you develop solutions to your own work and life issues.   Jan is an established comedy writer. She's sold material for Jay Leno's Tonight Show monologue on the Tonight Show as well as many other people, places and groups – radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (her parents are proud).   For over 25+ years she's traveled country as a comedian, keynote speaker, and Master of Ceremonies. She's shared her clean comedy with thousands of organizations, and her business tips with thousands of corporations and associations. She's been onstage in front of everyone from the Mayo Clinic to several of the Federal Reserve Banks. Jan is also currently co-starring in the Baby Boomer Comedy Show, touring theatres with comedian Kent Rader, and she is also an excellent Master of Ceremonies!   Jan is the author of two books "Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers & Crowds," and "Convention Comedian – Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs." Her short stories can be heard on her popular podcast: "Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes."   What's in store every week? Monday – Friday – Jan offers a quick tip for managing work and personal life Saturday – a tip for Finding the Funny . . . Jan will help you find the funny in your life with a quick tip on using humor Sunday – It's time to sit back and enjoy a minute of Jan's clean comedy from her shows   Keywords (Up to 30)       #topkeynotespeaker #findingthefunnyinchange #humorkeynote #funneyfemalespeaker #funnymotivationalspeaker #cleancomedian  #funnykeynotespeaker #inspirationalkeynotespeaker #changemanagementspeaker #femalecomedians #femalestandupcomedians #femalecomedian #bestfemalecomedian #topfemalecomedian #bestfemalestandupcomedians #changemanagementkeynotespeaker #changespeaker #keynote #keynotespeaker #comedyemcee #masterofceremonies #leadershipkeynote #masterofceremonies #comedyemcee #comedianemcee #emcee #funnymasterofceremonies   Mayo Clinic Abbott Pharmaceuticals Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals Kaiser-Permanente Davita Dialysis Centers Blue Cross Blue Shield National Council for Prescription Drug Companies Organization of Nurse Leaders Federal Reserve Banks BDO Accounting Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group Merrill Lynch American Institute of CPAs National League of Cities International Worker's Compensation Fund LA County Management Association Social Security Administration Southern California Public Power Authority U.S. Air Force American Heart Associations Go Red For Women luncheons Speaking of Women's Health International Association of Administrative Professionals Toyota Women's Conference Women in Insurance and Financial Services Soroptimists Women in Film & Video Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event Breast cancer awareness School Business Officials associations School superintendent associations School boards associations State education associations Community college associations Head Start associations Texas adult protective services Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals International Association of Emergency Managers Disney Emergency Managers COPIC Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council Risk associations  

I think I actually had that thought when I was in my marketing job. I talked about using statistics in yesterdays humor tip, so that's an example of how I did it.   I hope you're having a wonderful Sunday. If you want to hear stories from my comedy career, check out my short podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. It's called Comedian Stories. I kick off with a joke, tell a short 3 or 4 minute story, and end with a take-away tip from what I learned. All under 5 minutes.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

And it's the Saturday edition of Finding the Funny, which means I'll be giving you a tip to find the funny yourself! I've written for everyone from the Tonight Show to radio, syndicated cartoon strips, CEO's, companies like airline food vendors. I now travel the country showing organizations how to use humor in business.   So here's your 60 second tip. . . Use statistics. They may be boring, but they are your friend in comedy. Make them up or find out ones. If you find out that 60% of people do one particular thing, then you can make up what the other 40% do or vice versa. Statistics are weird and they are kept , and then make up reasons why this is what it is. It's a fun, quick way to find the funny. Listen to tomorrow's joke to hear one of my statistic jokes   If you want more fast tips on coming up with humor in your communications, then check out my book on Amazon – Finding the Funny Fast. It's how to create quick humor to connect with clients, coworkers and crowds.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.  

If you watch 20 comics, you may see 20 different approaches to telling a joke. In my act I do 3-4 jokes a minute, and I like the set-up punch style of Rodney Dangerfield and Jay Leno. If you don't like this one, then you'll like this one. But other comics like to tell stories, and other comics like to tell stock jokes that we've all heard, and some comics like to act out and be physical while tell jokes, while others like to be deadpan.   I'm talking this week about humor rules, and while there aren't many in a comedy club, aside from be funny, there are a few if you want to do the humor out in the real world as a non-comedian. And today's tip is . . . do the humor that YOU, yourself, think is funny. Then you'll have fun doing it AND you'll sell it better. If you like knock knock jokes, okay, I guess you can do them. Whatever it is.   I tell up and coming comedians, that they should try to write clean so they can find the punchline, BUT if they curse a lot, then they won't be comfortable telling a joke without curse words, so yeah, make sure there's a punchline, but add in curse words. Find your style, and your sense of humor, and do that. . .Just make sure you know your audience or you may get yourself in trouble.   ACTION:  Go forward and give some kind of thought to what really makes YOU laugh. Tomorrow I'll be doing a quick tip on finding the funny in your life.     That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

I always have a client call before my keynotes and comedy shows. And people try to come up with funny things, instead of just telling me the facts and let ME come up with the funny. And people have actually said things to me such as "make fun of her hair" or "make fun of his divorce." Wow, really? Would you say that to them?   We're talking humor rules this week and my tip today sounds obvious, but shockingly it's not. Don't make jokes about something that you wouldn't say to their face. The only caveat to this is if you're a comedian in a comedy club and that's your thing, or you're roasting people. But I'm talking about if you just want to come up with every day humor, or joke around a bit. Don't do it at the expense of others. I talked earlier this week about not joking about sensitive subjects, but you should also not joke about personal issues . . . even if you're going to get a huge laugh. Don't get laughs at other people's expense unless that's you're goal and you're fine with hurting others.   Check out my website https://www.TheWorkLady.com to see the kind of humor I do.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

I was performing for a group of 4400 people. It was a dinner event, and they ran out of dinners for 1500 people. It was plated, so basically they miscounted by 1500 meals. AND it was their employee appreciate banquet. As a comedian, I wanted to get onstage, pull the curtain back and say "hey, I found them."   I didn't do that – why? Well this week's tips are on humor rules, and my tip today is to watch the sensitive subjects. . . don't take the easy shot. People had stormed out of this dinner, so the people left behind would have loved my joke about it – they obviously had a sense of humor, so I could have come up with several killer lines. BUT the client was backstage crying. She had messed up big time, and she knew it. I knew she was crying backstage, and I didn't want to get laughs at her expense.   When we're coming up with humor, sometimes you're tempted to take the easy shot and make fun of something someone has worked on, or make fun of a BIG mistake someone made. Watch yourself and make sure you're not going after a sensitive issue.   ACTION: If you'd like a copy of my 2-page article The Anatomy of a Joke – send me an email to Jan@TheWorkLady.com   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

Years ago I got to do comedy in front of 500 blind merchant. I was the only sighted person in the room, so of course as a comedian, the first thing I want to say when I get on stage is "hey, I'm naked!" But I didn't. Why? Okay, maybe it's a bad visual, but also they had put in my contract that they have heard every blind joke on the planet, so I can't do them. Period. They had a GREAT sense of humor, but they've heard all the blind jokes they want to hear.   My tips this week are on humor rules, and while there pretty much aren't any rules if you're a comedian in a comedy club, there are some general rules for non-comedians. And today's tip is to don't do the obvious jokes. It's not about being politically correct, it's the person or group you're joking with has probably heard it all. So you're not being funny, you're being obvious! Try to be a little more creative than regurgitating a fact they already know. I did a show for postal workers, and my friends were saying I should talk about going postal. . .no. these people lived it and it wasn't funny to them. Stay out of trouble, and avoid being boring by not doing the obvious jokes.    ACTION:  Check out https://www.ComedyEmcee.com to see me being the Master of Ceremonies for various groups. And note how I have fun with them without doing mean jokes.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

There are few rules for humor, and in fact, I think the only big rule in comedy is to be funny. You can be dirty, clean, insulting or whatever, but as long as you're funny, you've fulfilled the job requirement. That's the number one rule for the comedy clubs anyway. BUT doubtful most of you will be performing in a comedy club. So, if you want to tell jokes around family, friends, or the office, there really are a few loose rules that you might want to pay attention to. And that's what I'll be focusing on this week – humor rules.   Today's tip . . . only make fun of a group that you are a member of. If you're bald, you can make bald jokes. If you're obviously overweight, you can make fat jokes. If you're not, then don't. Ask if you belong to that group, only THEN you can do some humor about it.  Beware, you still might make people uncomfortable, but at least you're in the same boat as them. It's that simple rule, but people break it all the time, and then they get themselves in trouble. Don't be one of those people – stick to this rule.   ACTION: If you want some tips on writing humor, check out http://www.ComedyWriterBlog.com -  it's my blog with great tips on comedy writing.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.  

The won custody punchline wasn't the original punchline. My communications tips this week tell you how I get a little information over to you so that you get the joke. Check them out.   And if you want to hear short stories from my comedy travels, check out my podcast – Comedian Stories. It's a very short podcast, under 5 minutes. I kick it off with a joke, tell a quick story and end with a take-away tip of what I learned.     That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.  

And it's the Saturday edition of Finding the Funny, which means I'll be giving you a tip to find the funny yourself! I've written for everyone from the Tonight Show to radio, syndicated cartoon strips, CEO's, companies like wart removal cream makers, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (my parents are proud). I now travel the country showing people how to use humor in business.   So here's your 60 second tip – if you want to find the funny in a situation by doing some quick research. It sounds like a time suck, but you can actually do it pretty easily. The 3 main things I look at on a website are the home page, the About page, and the press release page. Those will pretty much give you the nuts and bolts of what you need to find the humor in something. If you want to, you can expand to the facebook page and latest tweet.   I once did a show for a religious group, and on their website was a 15 page code of ethics. I then got to point out that Jesus only had 10 commandments. It got a great laugh and was the perfect way to kick off their event.   If you want more fast tips on coming up with humor in your communications, then check out my book on Amazon – Finding the Funny Fast. It's how to create quick humor to connect with clients, coworkers and crowds.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.  

I talk fast. It's one of the critiques that I've always heard from people. I talk too fast, they can't keep up. This week I'm talking communication tips, and while I really haven't slowed down my talking over the years, I have enunciated better. And that may be the key for us fast talkers. Make sure you are saying every syllable when you're communicating, and people will be able to keep up better.   One person told me to tape an E on the floor in front of me so that I could look down and remind myself to enunciate. I haven't not done that yet, but I do visualize an E somethings. I also make a note before I go out to focus on my enunciation. You might wonder why I don't slow down? Well, I don't feel comfortable. My comedy act is in a rhythm and I feel like I'm breaking that rhythm by slowing down . . . so I've tried to find other ways to be clear. And some groups, now matter how slow you go, are still not going to follow. . . and then my timing is messed up, and nothing works.   Check out my website TheWorkLady.com for more of my short jokes to see how I word them and how fast I talk.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.    

I was having my HVAC unit replaced and 2 guys showed up at my house. They spoke pretty good English, but not 100%. They went up on the roof, and after about 20 minutes one of them came back down stairs and knocked on my door. I answered it and he said "are you alone." Well sort of, maybe. . ."no, I mean nobody is here in the house?" We'll I've kinda got someone coming over in a few minutes. "but right now – no one else here?" Sort of. . .what do you want.   "We turn electricity off. Nobody going to come by and flip the switch turn it back on. Ahhh, we get electrocuted!" Whew! No one else will do that. I understand where you're going with it, but don't. This week we're talking about communication tips. And while I've mentioned that you shouldn't overload people with too much information, my tip for today is to make sure you give them enough information. Ask yourself what is the main point in the communications that you want people to walk away with, and then make that point. Marketers say you should have people only do one thing – have one message in each marketing piece. Don't tell them about 6 products to buy, tell them about one. New comedians tend to give too much information in the set up, which makes people confused and bored. But don't give them too little or they won't get it. This goes for non-comedians too.   If you like these briefings, please make a positive comment and give me 5 stars!   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.    

Years ago I was doing a holiday party gig for a major corporation, and I got to the venue an hour early to take a look at the room. The room was set for the thousand people. And what did I see? The tables were in a circle and the stage was in the middle. They wanted me to spin and tell jokes. Really? I was thinking us comedians only need, lights, a mic, and a stage. I never gave thought to the fact that we also need to face the fricking audience!   This week I'm talking about communication tips, and today's tip is  . . . don't miss the easy communications by assuming people know certain things. Even if it seems obvious, you must communicate the minutiae and make sure the easy stuff doesn’t slip through the cracks. When comedians get on stage, we make sure to point out the things that we want to make sure people focus on. Louis Anderson, who is hilarious and a BIG guy, used to start out moving the mic stand so you could see him better. Obviously he's a large guy, but he still wanted to point out the obvious to people so they'll be with him on his jokes.   Watch the easy communications – the stuff you think the people will obviously know. . .they don't. What meeting planner thought having the comedian spin around while telling jokes was perfect!   ACTION:  Check out my podcast Comedian Stories for a joke, a short, 4 minute story from my comedy career, and a take-away tip from what I learned in that story.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

.  Getting up at my first open mic was scary, scary, scary. Luckily it went well. But I think what was even scarier than telling jokes on stage was telling my friends that I was doing jokes on stage. I wasn't exactly the class clown, and nobody really told me I should be a comedian. I was funny, but probably not comedian funny. I remember being out with a group of friends when I brought up that I was doing stand-up comedy. Without missing a beat, my friend Mary jumped in and said "I'm funnier than you." And she was funny. I had no come back.   Fast forward a few weeks later, and Mary saw me on stage. And then she got it. Afterwards she said, you're great. I'm just funny in small groups. And that's what sets comedians apart. We can communicate well, with people who don't have similar experiences. You can joke about the boss with co-workers at happy hour or your crazy relatives with your family at the dinner table because you all have a similar experience with them. You have a common bond.   This week I'm focusing on communications tips. Is to break up the information you want people to know about you into small sound bites. Don't give people too much information all at once.  If I go on stage and try to tell you in one sentence that I have a 17 year old female calico cat named Rover, that's too much information. You won't know if my punchline is going to be about an old cat or a girl cat or a calico cat because you're too busy processing all of that information.   To communicate clearly, use short sound bites, so you don't confuse people, and they'll miss the message you're trying to communicate. And along with that, use short and simple words and 1 or 2 syllables. People spend more time thinking about longer words, which also causes them to miss the rest of your message.   ACTION: Want to learn how to write jokes or add some humor to your written or verbal communications? Then check out my book on Amazon titled Finding the Funny Fast.  It's how to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers and Crowds.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.  

I've been on stage for 30 years. First doing stand-up comedy, and now I do a lot of keynote speaking at conferences. Yet you probably don't know who I am. And that means when I get on stage you don't know that I have 3 siblings, no kids, a cat and a dog, I live in LA, I ride motorcycles, I ski sort-of, I love to bike ride, and I've only had 5 cups of coffee in my life. . . I just don't like the taste.  Yet, how in the world can I get information about me, across to you (the audience) quickly so that you "get" me and my humor? It's a tough job. I've decided us unfamous people get about 30 seconds on stage to be funny and connect with the audience before the audience judges us as not funny. Famous people get about 10 minutes. . .then if they're not funny, the audience will turn on them.   This week I'm focusing on communication tips. Comedians communicate a ton of information about ourselves quickly so that you know about us and get our jokes. My first tip is that we repeat information. I will say the information in the set up line, two different ways quickly. My entire joke is about 3 lines long, not sentences, lines. By repeating the information twice in 2 different ways, you get what I'm talking about, whether it's about being an aunt or having a cat. Listen to any comedian, or to my jokes on my Sunday flash briefings, and you'll see what we're doing. We're telling you about us and what we want you to focus on twice in 2 different ways.   Next time you want to give people a lot of information fast, repeat it in two different ways. They'll immediately focus in on what you're talking about.   ACTION:  If you want to listen to a few of my jokes to see what I’m talking about, go to my YouTube channel. It's under my name, Jan McInnis   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

There really is such a thing as Heliskiing. This week I talked about finding a way to succeed even if you won't ever be at the top of your field. You need to get creative! I thought this was a creative way to heliski!   If you want to hear stories from my comedy career, check out my short podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. It's called Comedian Stories. I kick off with a joke, tell a short 3 or 4 minute story, and end with a take-away tip from what I learned. All under 5 minutes.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

:  And it's the Saturday edition of Finding the Funny, which means I'll be giving you a tip to find the funny yourself! I've written for everyone from the Tonight Show to radio, syndicated cartoon strips, CEO's, companies like wart removal cream makers, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (my parents are proud). I now travel the country showing organizations how to use humor in business.   So here's your 60 second tip. If you want to add quick humor to an email or a memo or something, then change the definition of the acronyms. I know it sounds stupid, but really no one knows what those acronyms mean anyway. So have some fun and change the definition. Make RFP – request for proposal be Really Frustrating Paperwork or HMO – Health Maintenance Organization be Having Many Oops. Maybe if you add a little humor, people will actually read what you're sending them!   If you want more fast tips on coming up with humor in your communications, then check out my book on Amazon – Finding the Funny Fast. It's how to create quick humor to connect with clients, coworkers and crowds.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.    

5 I know comedians who have flown into the town that they were performing in, didn't like the hotel or apartment that they were put up in, so they left. The club was stuck without a comedian for the night. The comic left because he could. He had another income – his wife.   My tips this week are on how to succeed even if you're not the top player in your profession, and today my tip is. . . if you want to succeed, even though you aren't the best, do not rely on anyone else. I think much of my success has come from being the only one to pay my mortgage and other bills. I didn't have the luxury of leaving if I didn't like something. . . instead I had to figure out how to work with it. Many times, this pushed me – I didn't like living in comedy condos with other comics, I didn't like doing bar gigs in front of drunk people. And while I absolutely loved comedy clubs, I didn't like working all my weekends and being gone all the time.   I had to find another way to do stand up comedy AND pay my bills. This pushed me to get better with my act and to find other places to do it. . . like the corporate market. If you are going to get good at something, anything, do not rely on someone else's help along the way, even for a little while. It's easy to say "I will only use my wife's income for 3 months while I get on my feet," but it's easy for 3 months to turn into 6 months, and then into a year. And before you know it, you're not finding ways to work around the things you don't like – you're just quitting on the hard stuff. And you'll never get better or get ahead by doing that. There are comics who are funnier than me but not farther than me because they didn't have to push themselves.   ACTION:  Check out my website www.TheWorkLady.com and see my comedy shows and keynotes for corporate clients.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.  

I got one of the nicest compliments from Mark Ridley who owns the Comedy Castle comedy club in Royal Oak, Michigan. He said he appreciated that I was professional, I showed up on time, I did the time I said I'd do on stage and that I didn't drink up all the free beer at the bar.   This week we're talking tips to get ahead, even if you aren't the most talented in your field.  And my tip today is to watch what you do behind the scenes. I didn't figure I'd be Jay Leno, but I still wanted a great career in comedy, and I realized that what I did behind the scenes, was just as important as what I did on stage. I had to be funny, but I was also easy to work with, and followed the comedy club rules.  I figured if it came down to me or another comic, and we were both funny, then they'd pick me because I wasn't going to cause them any extra hassles. Being easy to work with has helped me a ton in my career, so make sure you don't make crazy demands on the people who have to deal with you.    ACTION: What you do behind the scenes matters a LOT. If you want a peak behind the scenes of my comedy career, check out my book on Amazon – "Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs"   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.    

3    I was lucky enough to get in working with a lot of speakers bureaus early in my comedy career. They booked me into a lot of corporate gigs and I moved out of the comedy clubs and into better paying, better travel gigs. There were agents who really liked me, and after a few years I came out with an updated video tape. Of course I wanted feedback on it, so I sent it out to the agent. And never heard anything, not a peep. So I called one of them. I got the guy on the phone, and I asked him if he would look at my tape. He just laughed. He said Jan, I have hundreds of tapes to look at. I like you. I like your humor. I book you when I can. Please don't make me look at your tape.   This week I'm talking about how to succeed when you'll never be THE top person in your field. There are hundreds of successful basketball players, and only one Michael Jordan. That doesn’t' mean you can't be a professional basketball player. But there are some things you can do to help you be more successful. My tip . . . I realized from talking to that agent, don't bug the people who already like you and are helping you out. I learned from that conversation that my best strategy was to leave the agents alone. I mailed snail mail one fun promo each month to remind them that I'm here, but I didn't call and I didn't email. And I got booked a lot!   Check out my YouTube videos at Jan McInnis Comedian and you'll see if they're any good or not! Ha ha. I did not get any agent's input.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.    

The emcee at the comedy club is the low man on the totem pole. They don't get paid much, they don't get much time on the show, they have to go out first to warm up the crowd, and pretty much every time they're on stage, something else is happening – people are taking a bathroom break or ordering drinks or food. It's a thankless job and it's at the bottom.   This week we're talking about tips for succeeding even if you aren't the best person at what you're doing. And today's tip – use your time at the bottom to get good. Don't rush through it. I actually got from a comedian Lord Carrett when I was emceeing – he told me to emcee as long as I could stand it. He said what happens to most comedians, is they try to blow through the emcee spot, and barely have enough material when they reach the feature spot, where they need 30 minutes of jokes. So they get there, but end up getting stuck as a mediocre feature forever. He said make sure you build your act to a solid 30 minutes while you're an emcee, and then you'll fly through the feature spot. He said if you're really good, you won't get stuck as an emcee, but if you're medocre, you will get stuck as a feature act.   I took his advice and flew through the feature spot into headlining. There were comics who were funnier than me, but they stayed stuck in the feature slot, because they got labeled as a mediocre feature.   So stay longer than you think you can stand it at the bottom, so that you are over prepared.   ACTION: If you want to hear stories from my comedy career, check out my short podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. It's called Comedian Stories. I kick off with a joke, tell a short 3 minute story, and end with a take-away tip from what I learned.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.  

I heard a comedy writer once say that he got out of stand up comedy because he heard a famous comedian's act and he thought "I'll never be as good as that guy." So he left standup comedy, and went into comedy writing. On the one hand, that's nuts to get out of something that you really want to do just because you won't ever be at the tip top. Not every comedian can be Jerry Seinfeld, but if you want to do it, you should still do it! But he did something that was not nuts . . . he found another way to work in comedy, that he felt comfortable in.   This week I'm talking tips for how to succeed at something even if you aren't the best, and never will be. I'm not the highest paid comedian, I'm not the funniest comedian, but I still have made a GREAT living at it. My tip this week is to realize that you don't have to be the top person in your field in order to work in it - there is room for everyone at all levels. AND you can always find other related avenues to work in. For me it was the corporate arena – it's not that I didn't want to compete in comedy clubs, but I over 30 when I started working in the clubs – and so I had less energy than some of the other acts. I enjoyed the comedy clubs, and did make a decent living at it, but I really excelled when I got into the corporate market, and so that's where I focused my efforts.   ACTION:  Never avoid doing something that you want to do just because you may never be the best. Go ahead and do it, and keep your eyes open to see what other areas might suit you that are still in line with what you want to do. I didn't even know I could make a living in the corporate market until I took the plunge into comedy clubs.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

Ahh yes, my brother loves that joke. If you want to know the question I asked to come up with that punchline, listen to Saturday's briefing. And if you want to hear short stories from my comedy travels, check out my podcast – Comedian Stories. It's a very short podcast, under 5 minutes. I kick it off with a joke, tell a quick story and end with a take-away tip of what I learned.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.

And it's the Saturday edition of Finding the Funny, which means I'll be giving you a tip to find the funny yourself! I've written for everyone from the Tonight Show to radio, syndicated cartoon strips, CEO's, companies like wart removal cream makers, and even guests on the Jerry Springer show (my parents are proud). I now travel the country showing organizations how to use humor in business.   So here's your 60 second tip. Last week I talked about asking question to come up with humor. And I'll share with you one of the biggest questions I ask. I look at something as if it's a problem and ask the question "How would I solve this if I could solve it any way I want?" Then I come up with funny answers. Try it. Look at situations and ask How would I solve this if I could solve it any way I want. Listen to other comedians, and you'll hear them asking this question too. And listen to tomorrows joke and see how I creatively got my nephew to stop crying by asking this question. By the way, it's a joke! I didn't really do it!   If you want more tips on coming up with humor in your communications, then check out my book on Amazon – Finding the Funny Fast. It's how to create quick humor to connect with clients, coworkers and crowds.   That's it for today. Take care and enjoy your journey.