When was the last time you really, really laughed? For some people, laughter comes easily and anything can set them off. But for many of us, finding humor in everyday life is something we might leave to the professionals. Jo Firestone is a comedian--and long-time friend of Chris’s--who frequently teaches all kinds of people the art of stand-up comedy. In today’s episode, she talks about how humor can be an act of connection, and how comedy can help us see the lighter sides of life, even in difficult times. Case in point: over the last year, Jo taught socially-distant stand-up to senior citizens over Zoom. Now, her students will be the stars of their very own comedy special, “Good Timing” which airs later this month. Barbara Bova, one of Jo’s hilarious students, also joins to share the comedy tips she learned and to tell some great jokes. Find more about Jo on her website at jofirestone.com and check out “Good Timing” on October 15. To learn more about "How to Be a Better Human," host Chris Duffy, or find footnotes and additional resources, please visit: go.ted.com/betterhuman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Smitty, Niminy, and Jo Firestone in a rat city under NYC. Featuring stories of a balloon in space and bees seeking revenge. Explore the intricate rat society, an Infinity Wrench adventure, a confession interrupted by an ad, repair rat union frustration, and imaginative kids' stories.

Jo Firestone, comedian and star of 'Good Timing' and 'Joe Pera Talks with You', discusses teaching stand-up comedy to seniors, her role as a doomsday prepper on 'Joe Pera Talks with You', and her comedy special 'Good Timing' which showcases the work of her senior students.