How Humor Helps: Dr. Lou Franzini on Laughter’s Role in Healing and Coping with Cancer

S1E116 - How Humor Helps: Dr. Lou Franzini on Laughter’s Role in Healing and Coping with Cancer

Published: February 12, 2026

Duration: 46:34

On this episode of Cancer and Comedy, Dr. Brad Miller talks with psychologist and author Dr. Lou Franzini about how humor can be a powerful ally during cancer, stress, and everyday adversity. Lou shares his journey from university professor and researcher to practitioner of therapeutic humor, drawing on his work in psychology, his involvement with Toastmasters, and even stand-up comedy to explain why humor matters so much for emotional and physical health.

Brad and Lou explore what makes humor helpful versus harmful—why racist, sexist, or demeaning jokes damage connection, and how appropriate, inclusive, or even gently se...