THE MIDLIFE EDIT PODCAST
You’re Still Allowed to Laugh
With Dani Klein Modisett
ABOUT THE CONVERSATION
What happens when a comedian can’t make her own mother laugh?
Dani had spent decades performing and teaching comedy. But when her mother became withdrawn while living with Alzheimer’s, she couldn’t get her to laugh.
So she hired another comedian.
An unexpected exchange brought out a laugh—and gave Dani an idea that would eventually become Laughter On Call.
In this conversation, Dani shares what that experience taught her about connecting with someone whose world is changing. We talk about the uncertainty of visiting a loved one when you don’t know what to say, and the small things that can make being together feel easier.
We also get to know the woman behind the business: a performer who still goes to dance class, a mother who rethought her place in comedy clubs, and an entrepreneur who started at 54 without an MBA or a plan for how it would all turn out.
IN THIS EPISODE
How Dani found her way into stand-up while waiting tables in Los Angeles
Her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and the beginning of Laughter On Call
Allowing moments of humor during illness and grief
Letting go of the moment before so you can connect in the present
Showing up for someone even when you feel awkward or unsure
Using humor as a woman in leadership
Creating something you care about while living with self-doubt
MEET THE GUEST
Dani Klein Modisett
Dani Klein Modisett is a comedian, author, speaker, and founder of Laughter On Call. She taught stand-up at UCLA for ten years and is the author of Take My Spouse, Please and Afterbirth: Stories You Won’t Read in a Parenting Magazine.
Inspired by her experience with her mother, Dani created Laughter On Call to help people connect through shared laughter. Its work includes programs for senior communities, caregiver training, and workshops for workplace teams.
A little something to take with you
Dani’s suggestion for anyone unsure how to visit a loved one: bring a cookie, play some music, or spend 20 minutes together. You don’t have to arrive with the perfect thing to say.
And if you’ve been following Hold the Pen, consider this:
When you’re busy taking care of everyone else, what do you keep telling yourself you’ll get back to later?
Write it down. Then ask yourself whether there’s a small piece of it you could make room for this week.
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