By: Samantha Walker
In a world where stress, burnout, and feeling stuck are all too common, many people find it challenging to break free from unfulfilling careers and embrace joy. Emily Taradash, a life coach, stand-up comic, and artist, offers a refreshing antidote: laughter. We sat down with Emily to discuss how her background in theater and comedy has shaped her unique approach to coaching and how humor helps her clients rediscover their purpose and confidence.
Q: Emily, can you tell us a bit about your journey from life coach to stand-up comic?
Emily Taradash: Absolutely! My journey began in the world of theater, where I worked as a costume designer and stylist for over 100 live shows. I loved helping actors embody their characters through costumes, but I quickly realized that my real passion was helping people shift their beliefs and live more authentic lives. As I transitioned into life coaching, I found that humor was a powerful tool for breaking down barriers. Eventually, that led me to stand-up comedy, where I could share my observations and help people find joy through laughter.
Q: How does your background in comedy influence your coaching practice?
Emily Taradash: Comedy and coaching go hand in hand for me. Humor has always been a way to disarm people and make them feel comfortable. In my coaching practice, I often work with clients who are weighed down by the seriousness of life. Humor helps them soften, relax, and see things from a different perspective. For many, it’s an instant surrender that allows them to let go of stress and embrace the idea that they are enough just as they are.
When I’m on stage, I write observational comedy based on my own experiences. I don’t use the stage as a place to unload or vent but rather to share moments that would otherwise be embarrassing or shameful. By bringing these experiences into the open and making people laugh, I help them realize that it’s okay to make mistakes or take detours. We’re all human, and life isn’t about following a straight path.
Q: What sets your coaching apart from other life coaches?
Emily Taradash: What sets me apart is the way I blend humor with deep, transformational work. Life coaching doesn’t have to be overly serious all the time. In fact, I believe that humor is one of the best ways to release tension, overcome shame, and break down self-imposed barriers. Laughter helps people see that they are capable of change without the pressure of perfection. I want my clients to feel free to take risks and pursue what truly makes them happy.
I work with clients who feel stuck in their careers or personal lives, and I help them set clear goals. My coaching focuses on three key areas: self-awareness, authenticity, and actionable steps toward change. Many people come to me feeling unfulfilled, even though they’ve done everything society says they should. My job is to show them that it’s never too late to pivot and pursue something new.
Q: Can you share an anecdote about one of your clients or your own experience that shaped your coaching?
Emily Taradash: Oh, definitely! I’ve had a lot of side quests in my own life. I got married, got out of shape, got distracted, and even tried doing drag as a teacher for a few years—true story! But all of these experiences have shaped who I am today and given me a wealth of material for both my coaching and my comedy.
As for my clients, I worked with one woman who felt trapped in a high-pressure corporate job. She was stressed and burnt out but didn’t know how to make a change. Through our sessions, we used humor to unpack some of the self-doubt and fear she had about leaving her position. After a few months, she took a leap of faith, started her own business, and now feels more fulfilled than ever. Humor helped her realize that her mistakes and missteps were just part of the journey—not something to fear.
Q: How do you encourage people to take bold steps in their lives?
Emily Taradash: By showing them that taking risks and making bold choices is a form of self-expression. I remind my clients that they are more than their resumes or what others expect them to be. We are allowed to change, evolve, and pursue new dreams at any age. I often say that seeing someone in their joy and truth gives others permission to want that for themselves.
Whether it’s quitting a job, starting a new career, or simply picking up a hobby, I encourage people to follow their muse. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—just go for it. My job is to help people take those first steps and give them the confidence to keep moving forward.
Q: What’s next for you, and how are you celebrating your three-year business anniversary?
Emily Taradash: I’m so excited about what’s coming up! I’m celebrating three years in business, where I offer 6-month cohorts in goal growth. These cohorts are all about helping clients grow personally, professionally, or creatively. I’m also gearing up for some exciting events, including the “New Kids on the Block” comedy show at The Levee in Kansas City on September 20th. And in October, I’m partnering with Arlin Pacheco and TourKansasCity for a live in-person event at Vignette’s on the 6th.
I’m so grateful for the journey so far, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next—both in coaching and comedy.
Published by: Holy Minoza
