David Granirer: Turning Mental Health Struggles Into Confidence Through Comedy
How humor and storytelling can challenge stigma and help people see themselves differently.
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What happens when people take the parts of their story they once felt ashamed of — and turn them into something powerful?
In this episode of Glow For Hope, Kelly Poelker sits down with counselor, stand-up comedian, and author David Granirer, founder of Stand Up for Mental Health.
David lives with bipolar disorder and spent nearly two decades struggling with undiagnosed depression before discovering how comedy could transform the way he related to his experiences.
Today, he teaches stand-up comedy to people living with mental health conditions — helping them build confidence, challenge stigma, and share their stories in a completely different way.
David explains why laughter can create connection, how humor can shift the weight of painful experiences, and why he believes that when someone stands on stage and owns their story, something powerful happens inside.
This conversation explores identity, stigma, confidence, and the surprising role humor can play in mental health.
What You’ll Learn
- How David’s experience with bipolar disorder shaped his journey
- Why humor can change the way people carry difficult experiences
- How stand-up comedy helps people reclaim confidence
- The difference between laughing at mental health and telling your story through humor
- Why audiences often respond with empathy and connection
- How comedy can challenge stigma and open conversations
- Why David says: “Once you’ve done stand-up, you can do anything.”
- How laughter can be a coping tool during difficult times
Guest Spotlight: David Granirer
David Granirer is a counselor, stand-up comedian, and the founder of Stand Up for Mental Health, a program that teaches stand-up comedy to people living with mental health conditions.
David lives with bipolar disorder and has spent more than two decades helping people use humor to challenge stigma and build confidence.
Since launching the program in 2004, he has trained performers in more than 50 cities across Canada, the United States, and Australia.
Through live performances, training programs, and speaking engagements, David helps audiences see mental health in a new light while empowering participants to tell their stories in their own voice.
Key Quotes
Resources & Next Steps
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Stand Up for Mental Health:
Learn more about David’s program and watch performances from participants: standupformentalhealth.com -
Mental Health Resources:
Explore additional support and information from Glow For Hope: Glow For Hope Mental Health Resources -
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Crisis Resources
If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available.
- United States: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
- Emergency: Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are struggling, please seek support from a qualified mental health professional.
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