Jane Condon: Nobody Pays to See Normal

What is it like to be a successful female comedian in later life? Host Betsy Bush interviews Jane Condon, a stand-up comedian. Jane discussed her journey into comedy, which she began at age 37. 

She shared insights into her comedic style, which draws from her life as a wife, mother, and resident of Greenwich, Connecticut, and her persona of an "uptight Connecticut mom." 

They cover the importance of persistence, the process of developing material, the necessity of "bombing" to improve, and how she used humor to navigate difficult life events. Jane offers encouragement and practical advice to others, especially women in midlife, who might want to try stand-up comedy.

Topics Covered:

  • Embracing one's authentic self, including age and personal flaws, was a source of powerful and relatable comedic material.

  •  Failure, or "bombing," was not something to be feared but was an integral part of the creative process for a comedian.

  • She positioned comedy as a service that provides a necessary distraction and moment of relief from the difficulties of life.

  • Persistence and a refusal to give up were the most important factors for a career in comedy, more so than innate talent. 

Interviewee Background:

Jane Condon is a successful stand-up comedian who started her career at age 37.  A graduate of Wellesley College, Condon's comedy often focuses on topics like marriage, kids, politics, and aging.  Living in Greenwich, Connecticut, she was dubbed an "upper crust Roseanne" by the Associated Press. She was a winner of the "Ladies of Laughter" contest and appeared on "Last Comic Standing."

Links:

  •  Learn more about Jane Condon at www.janecondon.com

  • Follow Jane Condon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jcondon4/?hl=en 

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