Lynn Shaw - Frequently Asked Questions


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Some of the businesses and associations Lynn has served include:

ADP of Indiana
American Heart Association ECC Conference
Attorney General’s Conference on Victim’s Rights Topeka, Kansas
Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arkansas
Clemson University Professional Women’s Day Conferences
Department of Corrections—State of Indiana (E.A.S.Y. Program Trainer)
Illinois Association of Family and Consumer Sciences
Indiana Association of United Way
Indiana Funeral Directors’ Association
Indiana Governor’s Conference on Aging
Indiana Health and Hospital Association
Indiana Judicial Center Drug and Alcohol Conference
Indiana Prosecuting Attorney’s Council
Indiana Society of Association Executives
Indiana Soldier’s Home
LaCrete Learning Center of LaCrete (Alberta, Canada)
Magellan Behavioral Health
Mead Johnson Nurses Conference
National Association of Social Workers - Indiana Chapter
Purdue University Home and Family Conference
Sisters of St. Francis Management Seminar
St. Joseph Health System (Orange, Calif.)
St. Vincent Hospital
Witham Health Services
World Laughter Tour International Laughter Symposium
Zonta International District Conference

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!
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!
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.
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 CEOs 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!
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.
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.
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!