045. From Banker to Photographer - Olivia Fernandez

Estonian comedian Mari Volar opens up about her unexpected journey from pursuing opera to finding her voice in comedy. We dive into the realities of living with episodic depression, the constant hunt for external validation, and the messy process of changing careers. Whether you're questioning your career path or just trying to figure out why you need everyone to like you (spoiler: blame the patriarchy), this episode hits different. Follow us on IG: @moni.zhang.comedy @marivolar

Comedians Eve Ellenbogen and Moni Zhang dive deep into the dark side of being a performer - from crippling self-doubt to complete burnout. Eve opens up about processing childhood trauma through comedy while Moni shares her breaking point after Edinburgh Fringe that led her to quit everything. A raw conversation about mental health in comedy, featuring social anxiety, imposter syndrome, and the constant pressure to "make it." Follow us on IG: @moni.zhang.comedy @eveelbow

Former Jehovah's Witness Chris Ford shares his transformation from living in religious constraints to embracing his sexuality. This interview explores religious trauma, self-discovery, and the courage to start over. Watch how Chris overcame homelessness, rebuilt his life through nursing, and found his voice in comedy. An unique story about choosing authenticity over acceptance and turning pain into laughter. Follow us on IG: @moni.zhang.comedy @fordulant

💡 Discover how Catherine maintains her successful career while managing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), major depression, and ADHD. From childhood bullying to corporate success, this conversation proves that mental health challenges don't define your potential. 🎯 This episode covers: - The three manifestations of her anxiety (perfectionism, time stress, social overthinking) - Navigating cultural expectations as a Cuban-American - Moving from severe depression to managing anxiety - How comedy became both a trigger and a coping mechanism - Practical strategies for managing high-functioning anxiety Follow us on IG: @moni.zhang.comedy

What happens when two comedians with ADHD sit down to talk mental health? Pure chaos and pure honesty. John Robles shares his journey from feeling "just dumb" to understanding his neurodivergent brain, while we explore the messy reality of making it in comedy while managing mental health. Follow us on Instagram: @moni.zhang.comedy @blowmybackoutdotcom

"I Haven't Thrown Up Since 1998" In this candid conversation, LA comedian Emily Markoe unpacks life with OCD and emetophobia. With disarming honesty and humor, Emily shares how her intense fear of vomiting has influenced everything from her marriage to potential motherhood, while revealing how therapy helped her face her fears. Follow us on Instagram: @moni.zhang.comedy @findemilyhere

A raw and honest chat with comedian Auz Thompson about life with schizophrenia. Recorded in a rainy park at Edinburgh Fringe 2024, we dive into everything from early diagnosis, the reality of hallucinations, to finding humor in the darkness. Also features an unexpected umbrella situation and some very British weather management. Follow us on Instagram: @moni.zhang.comedy @Aft.comedy

Two comedians with ADHD have an unfiltered conversation about turning their "weaknesses" into strengths on stage. Jordan Thomas Gray (USA) and Moni Zhang dive into the messy reality of creative life with ADHD. No sugar coating here - just real talk about finding your place when your brain works differently. Plus, we laugh about failed attempts at being "normal". Follow us on Instagram: @moni.zhang.comedy @jordanthomasgray

Two comedians from opposite sides of the world discover sisterhood while sharing stories about trauma, catcalling, and overcoming self-doubt. Watch as Barbie Unkorked drops truth bombs about authenticity and teaches this anxious Chinese comedian how to stop giving a fck. Follow us on Instagram: @moni.zhang.comedy @barbieunkorked

Russian comedian Maria Fedulova gets candid about battling anxiety while making it big in British comedy. From finding love to dealing with imposter syndrome, Maria opens up about her journey. We dive deep into self-doubts, body image, and how meeting the right people can change everything. Follow us on Instagram: @moni.zhang.comedy @mariafedulovacomedy