Virginia Is For Laughers

Laughers, after four heartfelt years and more than 200+ unforgettable episodes, Virginia Is For Laughers host Dawn Davis Womack signs off—for now—with love, laughter, and deep gratitude. In this short and sweet farewell, Dawn reflects on her podcasting journey, shares why it’s time to pause the show, and offers what she’s learning about life along the way. She also celebrates the incredible moment...

Laughers, ready to laugh—and maybe heal a little? In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, host Dawn Davis Womack is joined by fan-favorite Vernard Hines, aka The Laugh Therapist. Vernard—a retired Army vet, clean comedian, motivational speaker, and peer recovery specialist—gets real about his personal journey from the battlefields of Iraq to battling PTSD, with a pit stop at Reverend Peanut Bu...

Laughers, get ready for a vibrant ride through art, business, and creative grit. In this episode, we’re back with muralist and mixed media artist Laura Thompson—now operating out of the stunning backyard studio she built with her 80-year-old dad. From teaching art and mentoring creatives to slinging paint on 1,000-square-foot murals and crafting heartfelt pet portraits, Laura dishes on what it rea...

Laughers, today we step into the vibrant world of Winchester Little Theatre—housed inside a former Pennsylvania Railroad freight station from 1895! For 95 years, this historic theatre gem has sparked imaginations through adult and youth productions. In this behind-the-scenes peek, we dive into the WLT Kids’ upcoming show, The Great Fairy Tale Caper —a fast-paced, fairy tale whodunit filled with la...

Laughers, today get laughs, inspiration and behind the scenes takes with Lamont "FERG" Ferguson! Lamont is a Detroit native and now Virginia-based comedian, actor, and writer whose quick wit and infectious humor have earned him stages alongside legends like Kat Williams. Your host Dawn and FERG dive into his journey through comedy and acting, sharing hilarious anecdotes, hard-won wisdom from the r...

Laughers,  you're in for a treat as we chat with the hilariously bold Donna Lewis, a stand-up comedian, sketch writer, and improv comedy powerhouse who’s shared stages with legends like Maria Bamford and Marsha Warfield. Hear how she went from improv beginnings to rocking major festivals with her all-Black female sketch troupe, slaying crowds at DC Sketch Fest and Toronto Sketch Fest. We’ll also g...

Laughers, get ready for an inspiring and laugh-filled episode with Noah Miller—a former Coast Guard helicopter pilot turned stand-up comedian and screenwriter. Noah shares his unconventional journey from navigating the skies to commanding the stage, proving it's never too late to chase your dreams. He opens up about the pivotal moment that led him to trade his flight suit for a microphone and the...

Laughers, get ready to be uplifted and energized by the incredible journey of Leslie Rob—teacher, powerhouse comedian, viral sensation and all-around encourager! Dive into the hilarious (and sometimes unexpected!) stories behind her gigs, including that time she thought a legit offer to perform in Hawaii was a scam and hit “block.” Laugh along as she recalls her unconventional entry into stand-up...

Laughers, get ready to meet the creative force empowering the next generation of innovators in the Valley! In this episode, we sit down with Andrei Dacko, founder and CEO of JuiceWorks 3D Innovation Academy, and dive deep into his journey from a first grader tied to a chair (yes, really!) to dynamic educator, grant-winner, and entrepreneur. Hear how Andrei’s passion for hands-on, human-centered le...

Laughers, get ready to step into the Broadway magic happening in Winchester with Elizabeth Albert, Managing Director of Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre! Since 1984, this SSMT has wowed over 20,000 audience members each summer while nurturing the next generation of theater talent. Elizabeth shares the origin story of SSMT and how it grew from a student training program into a nationally recognized...

Laughers, get ready to laugh and be inspired by Mark Gregory, one of today’s top clean comedians and the nephew of the legendary comic Dick Gregory! Mark shares his fascinating journey from chasing Olympic dreams, to a calling in comedy, to being in the writers’ room with the Wayans family for CBS's new show “Poppa’s House’ starring Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. & more! Get a behind-the-sc...

Laughers, get ready to laugh and be inspired by Comedian Mu Cuzzo! Mu’s journey is anything but ordinary—he started out in hip hop, transitioned into stand-up comedy and quickly made waves in the comedy scene. As a comedian, producer, and passionate community leader, Mu talks about how his roots in hip hop shaped his comedic style, and how his massive, loving family inspires both his life and mate...

Laughers, get ready to be inspired by one of historic downtown Harrisonburg’s most beloved creative hubs! Oasis Fine Art & Craft is more than a vibrant boutique—it’s a 25-year-strong artist co-op brimming with heart, handmade treasures, and community spirit. In this special anniversary episode, meet two of its dynamic artists: Delaney Westwood, a fluid acrylic painter inspired by the universe...

Laughers, today we’re tackling a serious issue in this episode, but it’s also filled with uplifting moments, shared laughs, and a powerful message of hope and purpose. Meet Sabrina Dorman Andrew, founder of New Creation, a faith-based nonprofit in Harrisonburg, creatively counteracting human trafficking. Discover the incredible journey from transforming a former porn shop into a beacon of hope, to...

Laughers, today, we're inviting you to join us on a journey through the serene landscapes of the Shenandoah Valley with Farmer Tony of Madeline Farms. Known for his dedication to rescued animals and crafting unique, immersive farm stay experiences, Farmer Tony is here to share the heartfelt journey behind his top-ranked oasis. In this episode, you'll discover the perfect blend of rustic charm and...

Laughers, get ready to savor every moment with Sarah Baker-McEvilly, founder of BMC Bakes in Harrisonburg—a gluten-free bakery haven in the Shenandoah Valley! From kitchen to storefront, discover how Sarah transformed her love for baking, inspired by her grandmother and cultivated at Heritage Bakery, into a thriving storefront that serves up irresistible treats for events, weddings, events, and ev...

Laughers, today we dive into the vibrant world of "Bingo Is Life" with the dynamic and hilarious Howdyshell brothers, Chris and Mike. These talented musicians and entertainers have turned a simple game into a lively, interactive comedy event at Ruby's Arcade in Harrisonburg, VA. Every Tuesday night, they transform traditional bingo into a high-energy spectacle, blending laughter, music, and commun...

Laughers, get ready to dive into an exciting new adventure as Massanutten Resort launches its brand new comedy club in the cozy and intimate Elevations Lounge, a whiskey bar with views of breathtaking mountain scenery year round! Join us as Dawn Davis Womack chats with Mark Litz, Vice President of Operations for Food and Beverage at Massanutten Resort, about the rapid development of this new comed...

Laughers, get ready to meet the brutally honest and brilliantly funny Chris Alan in this exciting new episode! Chris, a national touring stand-up comedian and podcaster based out of Washington, D.C., has shared stages with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Michael Che, Mark Norman, and Roy Wood Jr to name a few. Not only does Chris have a razor-sharp wit and quick crowd interactions,...

Laughers, get ready to step onto the stage at Court Square Theater as we chat with Justin Ryder, the new managing director! With 40 years of extensive theater experience—ranging from Broadway touring musicals to executive roles in nonprofit and for-profit arts—Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to Harrisonburg. Hear about his journey, global touring adventures, and how he plans to hon...

Laughers, get ready to laugh and be inspired with Kasaun Wilson, the comedy powerhouse who has graced stages from NBC to Netflix's Joke Festival! Join us as we delve into Kasaun's journey, sharing stages with legends like Wanda Sykes and performing at iconic venues like the Kennedy Center. Learn about his unique experience on Last Comic Standing, where a surprise turn from Wanda Sykes played a piv...

Laughers, get ready for a wild, heartfelt ride with The Funny Womacks as this comedic couple pulls back the curtain on their 25-year marriage—sharing the highs, the lows, and the laughter that got them through it all. From surviving a marital crisis to thriving through growth, faith, and humor, they get real about what it takes to keep love alive. Hear their raw, hilarious, and inspiring journey,...

Laughers, today we dive into the heart of one of the Shenandoah Valley's vibrant experiences as we transport you to Stover Hall, a stunning wedding and event venue nestled amid breathtaking mountain views. Christina Grieve, who owns the venue with her husband, Wes, shares their offerings, their story, inspirations and much more! From its origins as a dirt floor horse barn to a chic event space, li...

Laughers, if you’re ready to elevate your health and fitness, today's episode is for you! We are thrilled to wrap up our health and fitness series with a remarkable guest, Dr. Stephanie Kurti-Luden. Dr. Steph, as she’s known among friends, is a kinesiology professor and graduate director of the exercise physiology program at James Madison University. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise...

Laughers, today we dive into the world of endurance training with Dr. Mike Saunders, the esteemed Director of the Human Performance Laboratory at James Madison University. Dr. Saunders, an exercise science professor and researcher, brings his exceptional expertise in endurance performance and recovery to the table. You'll hear about his unique journey from Canada to the United States, spurred by h...