JokeUp Podcast

In Part 2 of Root’s conversation with artist and English teacher Christine Po, the focus shifts from art to stand-up comedy. Christine only started doing comedy a few months ago, but she’s already performing on ticketed shows with JokeUp Comedy and even hosting them. She talks about why she joined JokeUp, what drew her to the scene, and how being on stage has changed the way she sees herself.Christine breaks down how she prepares her jokes before a show, how she turns everyday thoughts into punchlines, and what she’s learned about timing, honesty and bombing. She shares her own insight into what makes stand-up work, gives practical tips for anyone who wants to try comedy for the first time, and talks about her relationship with JokeUp Comedy as a community. Root and Christine also compare how different audiences react to jokes in different countries and what that teaches them about culture and humor.If you’ve ever thought “maybe I should try an open mic” or you’re just curious about what it’s like to go from zero to hosting shows in a few months, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Root talks with artist Christine Po, who calls art her “cheap therapist.”Christine shares stories from the three years she spent living in Mexico in her 20s — from the cheap peso and incredible food to the art-oriented culture and the reality of safety issues. She also talks about how she started drawing when she was young, why art still feels like a lifeline, and how it connects to her mental health.Root and Christine dive into AI and art as well: is AI just another tool for artists, or is it slowly killing creativity? Christine gives her honest take from the perspective of someone who loves art but works full-time as an English teacher.If you’re into art, mental health, expat life, or the future of creativity in an AI world, this conversation is for you.

Austin-born comic Jordan joins host Root to unpack nearly a decade in China—Chengdu heat to Shanghai nights—and what it taught him about writing tighter jokes, handling tough rooms, and keeping stand-up fun. We hit on hero influences, the fine line between a good roast and being a jerk, and why new comics should start with themselves. Plus quick hits on open-mic culture China vs. U.S., learning Chinese, food obsessions, and staying sane onstage.Follow, rate, and tell us who to invite next!