Finding the Funny: Leadership Tips From a Comedian

There are lots of frustrating elements in comedy, and we're used to them . .. things like drunks or bad set ups. But sometimes there are things that mess up your performance that you couldn't even think up! Here's a quick story about a few times things have thrown me for a loop! https://www. TheWorkLady.com   Jan McInnis is a top change management keynote speaker, comedian, and funny motivational...

If I could take back agreeing to this idea, I would, because I regretted saying yes to this one. Here's a quick story about why you should stick up for yourself when someone has an idea that you don't think will work. I was too new to comedy and too naive to speak up. https://www. TheWorkLady.com   Jan McInnis is a top change management keynote speaker, comedian, and funny motivational speaker who...

You'd think being a comedian prepares you for anything — hecklers, bad lighting, even a buffet line louder than your mic. But there's one thing no amount of punchlines can fix, and I found myself walking straight into it one afternoon. I was hired to entertain a room full of employees… who had just been given some BAD news. https://www. TheWorkLady.com   Jan McInnis is a top change management keyn...

On stage with family in the audience, the pressure was on—and things went sideways fast. In this episode, keynote speaker and comedian Jan McInnis takes you inside one unforgettable night in her comedy career. It's a hilarious, cringe-worthy story packed with lessons on resilience, risk-taking, and finding the funny when everything goes wrong.   https://www. TheWorkLady.com   Jan McInnis is a top...

Opening for a superstar sounds like every comedian's dream gig—but is it really? In this episode of Finding the Funny: Leadership Tips from a Comedian , Jan McInnis shares the chaos, comedy, and leadership lessons from opening for Julio Iglesias. From being ignored backstage to having her friend escorted out by security, Jan shows how resilience and humor can turn setbacks into unforgettable stori...

A lot of people have a dream job that they really want to do. Many people don't pursue it. There are lots of reasons for staying where you are instead of taking the leap into the unknown. Some of the reasons, like money or location, are valid. But some of the reasons, like the one given in this episode aren't really barriers. Listen to my short humor story about how to walk away from your dream jo...

Working on cruise ships as an entertainer can get weird, and I'm not talking about hecklers. Just getting to the ship in another country is a journey in itself. Here's a quick story about a cruise ship fiasco that could have turned out very badly! https://www. TheWorkLady.com   Jan McInnis is a top change management keynote speaker and comedian. She uses short funny stories to emphasize her tips o...

Working around sketchy entertainers is, thankfully, not usual, but it happens. Here's a quick story about one of the times I had to work with someone who really wasn't that safe for women. 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 t...

Referrals are a big part of most freelancer's business, especially comedians and keynote speakers! Here's a quick story about the right and wrong way to go about asking for a referral.   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...

What you wear onstage is important. This is a quick story about what NOT to wear. I got to work with someone who wore an odd outfit and her wordrobe choice backfired on her.   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...

As a comedian, I've learned that TV credits don't always define success. People often assume fame equals talent, but my career has thrived without constant screen time. From Irish Pubs to casino gigs, whats in a TV Credit? 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...

This behind-the-scenes look at a once-iconic comedy club shares the highs, nerves, and unexpected lessons that come with chasing stage time in a competitive industry. Through one comic's journey to land a coveted spot at Harvey's Comedy Club. 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...

In the world of leadership, influence, and workplace culture, few things are more delicate—and more impactful—than how feedback is delivered. As a keynote speaker who's worked with countless organizations, I've seen firsthand how a single comment can change the tone of an entire event. This story, drawn from a corporate luncheon I spoke at, reveals the hidden cost of "harmless" suggestions and how...

Humor isn't just for laughs—it can be a powerful tool for navigating awkward or uncomfortable situations with grace and confidence. In this story, keynote speaker Jan McInnis shares a memorable moment when a potentially embarrassing wardrobe mishap could've overshadowed an entire presentation. Instead, with a quick wit and a well-timed joke, she not only saved the moment but also connected with th...

Think contracts are just boring paperwork? Think again. This real-life tale dives into what happens when a "sure thing" gig turns into a disappearing act—thanks to one agent's total fear of commitment (to a contract, that is). It's funny, frustrating, and a little too relatable for anyone who's ever said yes without seeing the fine print. If you've ever trusted a handshake and hoped for the best,...

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 goe...

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 bridg...

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, a...

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.th...

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...

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 happe...

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 t...

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 professi...

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...

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...