Jan McInnis (The Work Lady) on Building Resilience Through Humor
Podcasts > I Am Refocused Radio Show
Monday, June 8, 2026
In this energizing episode of I Am Refocused Radio, host Shemaiah Reed sits down with Jan McInnis, known as The Work Lady — a nationally recognized funny motivational keynote speaker, comedian, and author who helps people find humor in the middle of change, setbacks, and everyday chaos.
Jan shares her inspiring journey from a 10-year-old girl who boldly declared she was going to ride a motorcycle to Los Angeles and become a comedy superstar, to spending over a decade in corporate marketing before finally answering the call to the stage. With more than 25 years on the national speaking circuit, she now teaches leaders, teams, and professionals how to use comedian-level resilience skills in real life and work.
You’ll hear practical wisdom from her popular keynotes, including “Finding the Funny in Change” and “Bouncing Back: Handling Setbacks Like a Comedian.” Jan reveals the specific techniques comedians use to recover from mistakes on stage — and how anyone can apply those same tools to bounce back faster from career disappointments, personal challenges, and unexpected life twists.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in transition, struggled with resilience, or wanted to bring more lightness and perspective into your work and life, this conversation will give you fresh tools and a renewed sense of humor about the journey.
Key themes include:
- Using humor as a resilience strategy
- Navigating change without losing your mind (or your sense of humor)
- Bouncing back from setbacks like a professional comedian
- The power of finding the funny in difficult seasons
- Following your calling — even if it takes the long way around
Whether you’re leading a team, going through a career shift, or simply trying to stay grounded when life throws curveballs, Jan’s insights will help you refocus with more laughter, clarity, and strength.
Connect with Jan McInnis at theworklady.com
