Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do you speak just on laughter?
Yes…and no. It
is true that my overall niche is speaking on the benefits of
therapeutic laughter. However, I blend the concepts of
therapeutic laughter with the many life issues we face, such as:
finding balance in daily living, coping with multiple
stressors, managing teams, and raising a family. My sons
are relieved that I do not just stand up and laugh; as
entertaining as that might be!
2. How is your work different from that of
a comedienne?
Though I appreciate those
who recognize my comedic timing and those who connect with my
humor, I do not put myself in the league of comedy. I
think those who study comedy and who set out to purposefully
make people laugh are very courageous. I, on the other
hand, am chicken and stay true to my psychotherapy background
and educator-at-heart concepts of teaching and blending stories
to connect the points. The therapeutic laughter exercises
generate laughter for those who are ready to laugh. I do
not get on the platform to MAKE an audience laugh – I
invite them to join me!
3. You have a diverse working background
– how did you move into professional speaking?
I feel blessed to have
experienced a variety of work settings that have given me a
rich background in human behavior and relationships.
Initially, I planned to be an elementary school teacher.
Substitute teaching and recess duty, quickly changed my mind!
Instead I found myself working in probation, addictions,
mental health, social work, and then I moved into
administration as a supervisor, marketer, and program director.
I had a counseling practice and the platform was calling
to me to speak full-time so I took the plunge. I still
think of my work as helping others make choices and choose how
to live; I just work from a platform instead of a chair.
Occasionally I am nudged towards the classroom so I
volunteer annually as guest speaker at our local community high
schools. It’s great fun to be with the youth and
then go home! Tee Hee!
4. What specializations separate you from
other humorists and laughter speakers?
Great question! I have
wonderful colleagues in this world! We each have our
story to tell that hopefully inspires people to make changes in
how they live and care for themselves and each other.
Comparing speakers is inevitable for meeting planners and
committees because you want a great fit for your event.
One edge is my extensive therapeutic background in the
“helping” professions, and my ability to relate to
a diverse audience while playing off the dynamics of each
group. I have counseled CEO’s through marital
strife, self-exploration and stressful times. I have
listened and coached people who are decision-makers at work but
can barely function at home. I have spent thousands of
hours attending professional institutes, trainings and
workshops to maintain my license as a psychotherapist. I
have specialized training in holistic stress management,
gestalt therapy, and coaching.
I also belong to the
National Speakers Association and am a past president of the
Indiana chapter. I adhere to the code of ethics of this
association and will endeavor to deliver the utmost of quality
and professionalism to each client. And, still, I know I will
not fit every meeting planner’s ideal so I say that up
front!
5. What kinds of organizations do you
choose to work with?
I work with a variety of
organizations that comprise three basic markets: healthcare,
associations, and government agencies. I also speak for
women’s ministries. I speak on the state and
national level for conferences, and also enjoy conducting
worksite staff trainings, at hospitals, clinics, schools, etc.
6. May I use the articles available
on your website at no cost or obligation?
You are welcome to reprint
any article in your company’s newsletter or on an
organization’s website at no charge, provided that you
clearly indicate Lynn Shaw as the author and
www.lynnshaw.com as the source.
7. One last question… Are you really
fun to live with?
Now that question is truly
debatable! I do strive to bring my family the same
courtesy and respect I give my audiences. I am a wife,
mom, daughter, and sister. Sometimes those life roles blur with
my professional speaking role. On grumpy days, my family
would definitely tell you that they escape the household
because the fun isn’t inside. But on those days, we
rally together and chase the laughter, along with the dust
bunnies!