What if humor isn’t just a personality trait—but a survival strategy?
Kate Bowler sits down with writer Jenny Lawson and entertaining YouTuber Rhett McLaughlin to talk about the strange, often dark roots of comedy. From childhood anxiety and taxidermy-filled homes to lifelong creative friendships and faith that evolves, they explore how silliness, honesty, and absurdity help us live with what hurts. This is a conversation about being “too much,” laughing at what’s not funny, and finding connection in the weirdest parts of being human.
SHOW NOTES
Tour dates & tickets: katebowler.com/joyfulanyway
Watch the live conversation on YouTube
Let’s Pretend This Never Happened — Jenny Lawson
Furiously Happy — Jenny Lawson
Broken (in the Best Possible Way) — Jenny Lawson
How to Be Okay (When You’re Not Okay) — Jenny Lawson
Rhett & Link / Mythical Entertainment
James and the Shame (Rhett McLaughlin’s music project)

Joyful Anyway (Yes, Even Now)
09:37

The Strange Gift of Joy with Rowan Williams
50:30

Living the Questions (Without Fixing Yourself) with Suleika Jaouad
35:20