Can Laughter Really Improve Mental Health? A Conversation with Frank King episode artwork

EPISODE · May 12, 2026 · 36 MIN

Can Laughter Really Improve Mental Health? A Conversation with Frank King

from The Lighten Up Project

What if laughter could help save a life—including your own? In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Frank King shares how humor opens the door to conversations about depression and suicide—and why speaking up might be the most important step toward healing.What You’ll Hear:How humor can help break the stigma around mental health and suicideWhy vulnerability is the key to connection, healing, and saving livesThe difference between comedy and meaning—and why both matterHow to recognize when someone (or yourself) may be silently strugglingWhy “you’re not alone” is more than a phrase—it’s a lifelineFrank’s personal journey from suicidal thoughts to becoming a mental health advocateResources Mentioned on this EpisodeConnect with Frank King:https://mentalhealthcomedian.comWatch Frank’s TEDx Talks on mental health and suicide preventionMalcolm’s improv + laughter experiences (link)Featured Guest: Frank KingFrank King, Suicide Prevention Speaker, writer for The Tonight Show for 20 years, speaker and comedian for 40. His speaking is informed by his lifetime of Depression and Suicidality and coming close enough to ending his life that he can tell you what the barrel of his gun tastes like. Turning that long dark journey of the soul into 13 TEDx Talks, sharing his lifesaving insights with corporations, and associations. He’s shared the stage with comedians, Jeff Foxworthy, Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, Dr. Ken Jung, Ellen DeGeneres, Dennis Miller, and Bill Hicks, as well as entertainers, Lou Rawls, The Beach Boys, Randy Travis, and Nancy Wilson. On top of all of that, he has survived 2 aortic valve replacements, a double bypass, a heart attack, and losing to a puppet on the original Star Search and has lived to joke about it all.Connect with Frank:https://mentalhealthcomedian.com http://www.facebook.com/thementalhealthcomedianhttps://www.instagram.com/thementalhealthcomedian/https://bsky.app/profile/frankking.bsky.socialhttps://www.youtube.com/thementalhealthcomedianhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/frankkingthemhcomedianFree Gift: Free 30-Minute TEDx and How to Make Money Speaking Zoom https://link.freezdigital.com/widget/bookings/virtual-cup-of-coffee-and-liveMeet the Host: Malcolm GrissomMalcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant.Follow Malcolm:Website: malcolmgrissom.comFacebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissomLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissomStressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault.Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network.Share the Love✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway!🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you.🔊 Listen & Subscribe🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🎧 Amazon Music🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

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