Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out 199. Jordan Jensen: You Can’t Say That (But Actually You Can)
Jan 19, 2026
This week features Jordan Jensen, a fearless stand-up comedian and actress known for her Netflix special 'Take Me With You.' She shares how caring for a paralyzed friend inspired her to pursue stand-up comedy. Jordan also delves into the contrasts between her no-filter on-stage persona and her more vulnerable side. Enjoy wild tales, like an audience confrontation and almost biting Laura Dern on set. Plus, she reveals how to engage male audiences with feminine topics, making the taboo hilariously relatable.
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Persona Contrast Fuels Emotional Payoffs
- Jordan balances a loud, no-filter stage persona with a private, vulnerable romantic side that surprises partners.
- She uses that contrast deliberately to lure audiences in before revealing deeper emotional material.
Be Clear With Partners About Material
- Tell partners upfront you will use relationship moments in your comedy and get clear consent about the shape of that public material.
- If a partner can't laugh about shared awkward moments, the relationship likely won't fit your comedic life.
Stand-Up Started While Caring For A Friend
- Jordan Jensen began doing stand-up while caring for her paralyzed college friend Helene and tested jokes by parking her outside and riffing with her.
- Helene attended open mics in a wheelchair and became Jordan's biggest cheerleader during the early comedy days.