From Street Performer to Joy Advocate: How to Put Joy First with Katy Bee

In this episode of the Cancer and Comedy podcast, host Dr. Brad Miller has an engaging conversation with Katy Bee (real name Kate McGlynn), a professional clown, performer, and founder of Joy First Foundation, whose mission is to spread joy and connection through humor and heartfelt interaction. The episode delves into how Katy Bee’s unique approach to joy and humor can transform lives and provide hope, especially in challenging circumstances. Dr. Miller begins by introducing Katy Bee’s journey as a “professional noticer,” someone attuned to the joys and struggles of those around her. Katy shares her inspiration behind founding the Joy First Foundation, a non-profit born from the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine war. The foundation began to offer support to those in crisis through laughter, yoga, improv, and meditation. She recounts the pivotal moment when the phrase “joy first” came to her during meditation, setting the tone for her mission. One of the episode's highlights is Katy’s “Tour of Joy,” where she traveled the U.S. in a tiny runaway trailer, spreading joy through gratitude and connection. From surprising essential workers with thank-you cards to hosting an “unbirthday” party for a quadriplegic young man, Katy’s stories illustrate the power of small, meaningful acts to uplift spirits. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: joy is reciprocal, and acknowledging others can spark a ripple effect of positivity. Dr. Miller and Katy discuss practical strategies for fostering joy, like giving heartfelt compliments to strangers, using humor to break down barriers, and practicing gratitude. Katy’s story about connecting with a Walmart employee struggling with personal challenges is a touching reminder of how genuine kindness can create transformative moments. The conversation also explores the more profound impact of joy on our mental and physical health. Katy shares insights from her work with caregivers, hospital staff, and schools, emphasizing humor's importance as a coping and connection tool. She also touches on the science of laughter, citing research showing its ability to reduce stress hormones like cortisol and boost serotonin and dopamine levels. Katy concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to savor moments of joy and embrace small acts of kindness. She offers a standing ovation to anyone struggling, reminding them that their presence on this earth matters deeply. Listeners are invited to connect with Katy Bee through her organization, Joy First Foundation, at joyfirst.org katybeellc.com  and explore her work on YouTube and social media for more inspiration and strategies to integrate joy into daily life. Website: https://cancerandcomedy.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfP2JvmMDeBzbj3mziVGJUw Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1eWJCkSrGcmh2QX4flQiWW LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbradleymiller/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertbradleymiller/ Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cancerandcomedy" rel="noopener