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Conversations with Kristen Wynns

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Wynns.

Hi Kristen, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
In the beginning… I was a child psychologist helping kids, teens, and parents navigate the ups and downs of growing up. I founded Wynns Family Psychology back in 2007, and what started as a one-woman mission to help families thrive has grown into a thriving practice with offices in Cary, North Raleigh, Greensboro, and Fuquay-Varina. Along the way, I wrote The No Wimpy Parenting Handbook—a straight-talking, heart-centered guide for parents who want less chaos, more confidence, and a lot more peace at home.

After 20 years of weaving humor into therapy sessions, I finally gave it a stage. Enter Career 2.0: Dr. Kristen Wynns became Kiki the comedian. What started as a dare (and a single open mic in 2022) turned into a whirlwind—three mics later, I was getting booked for paid gigs, and I haven’t looked back since.

Now I’m known for high-energy storytelling, hilarious observations about human behavior, and my unapologetically clean but cheeky humor. My shows feel like a hilarious group therapy session where everyone walks out a little lighter. I blend sharp wit with heart, pulling from both my clinical background and my chaos-filled human one.

After catching the attention of veteran comic Craig Shoemaker at my very first gig, I’ve since opened for him multiple times, performed at the NC Comedy Festival three years running, and taken the stage in Los Angeles and New York City (including the legendary Copacabana). I’ve also been featured on national podcasts like She’s Invincible, The Clean Comedy Podcast, and Still Standing Up with Craig Shoemaker.

I’m also the creator and headliner of Ladies Laugh Lounge—a hit, women-centered comedy show that’s redefining what it means to laugh, connect, and celebrate women in comedy. As a regular headliner at Goodnights Comedy Club in Raleigh, I’m proud to lead a movement that proves clean, clever comedy isn’t just refreshing—it’s unforgettable.

Next up: our Spooky Edition of Ladies Laugh Lounge on October 28th, where the audience and performers are encouraged to show up in costume for a night of big laughs, bold energy, and women supporting women. Bring your besties, your costume, and your laugh. Let’s fill the room with joy.

🎟️ Tickets + info: https://www.goodnightscomedy.com/shows/331741
🎤 Follow along on Instagram: @kikiscomedyclub

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My career hasn’t been without obstacles—from starting my own practice during a recession after being unexpectedly let go from another private practice, to navigating the unique challenges of being a female boss and business leader. Later, when I stepped into comedy, I faced a whole new set of struggles—dealing with drama in the scene as my success grew and fighting to pioneer a new kind of show that elevated women in comedy. Every step of the way has meant pouring my own blood, sweat, and tears into creating opportunities, promoting shows, and pushing through when the odds weren’t in my favor. It’s not easy to juggle so many dreams and “side hustles” while keeping my priorities crystal clear. I’m constantly balancing my drive to grow as a business owner and creative with being a dedicated mom and wife—all while trying to practice what I preach about self-care. Some days it feels like there just aren’t enough hours, but I’ve learned that making space for myself is what ultimately allows me to show up fully for my family, my work, and my passions.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In comedy, I produce, headline, and perform in shows that bring people together for connection and laughter. I specialize in creating spaces that highlight women in comedy, especially through my signature show Ladies Laugh Lounge, which has become a hit in Raleigh with multiple packed shows! I’m known for being both a performer and a builder, someone who doesn’t just get on stage, but also curates and promotes shows that give other comics opportunities and audiences a one-of-a-kind experience. I’m most proud of how quickly I’ve grown from my first open mic to opening for nationally touring comics and producing some of the Triangle’s most talked-about shows. What sets me apart is my ability to combine sharp, relatable material with a vision for elevating others, proving that comedy can be both funny and transformative for the scene.

More recently, I’ve expanded my work beyond the stage by speaking on the healing power of humor. I now offer workshops and keynote talks where I help professionals and organizations use laughter as a tool for self-care, resilience, and connection-combining my background as a psychologist with my passion for comedy in a way that truly empowers people. For information on booking for comedy or speaking, please email kristen@wynnsfamilypsychology.com or visit WynnsFamilyPsychology.com.

What makes you happy?
I have a higher calling to help people feel better. Whether I’m in my office counseling someone in a therapy session, encouraging my staff to hang in there on tough days, or delivering punch lines from stage, I LOVE to have my words lead to someone feeling better. I am someone who gets happy easily, it’s the small things for me. My kids, our silly dog, a sunny day, nature, sharing drinks with my best friend or twin, cuddling with my husband watching trash tv, reading in a hammock, going on a good sweaty run, enjoying a bowl of ice cream…the list could go on and on! Life is too short not to enjoy every moment!

Pricing:

  • Humor Coaching/Workshops: Hourly or day rates apply
  • Comedy show booking – varies on location and length of set

Contact Info:

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