How Leaders Think with Kenny Lange How Andrew Tarvin Thinks About Humor That Works for Business Success
Oct 29, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Andrew Tarvin, a Humor Engineer who collaborates with giants like NASA and IBM, explores the impact of humor in leadership. He reveals that humor is a learnable skill that enhances workplace communication. Andrew shares how humor fosters connection in an AI-driven world, breaking it down into competencies that empower employees. He suggests actionable habits, like a smile per hour, to cultivate a lighter workplace. Discover how laughter can drive business success and inspire authenticity in leadership!
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Forced Improv Sparked A Career
- Tarvin was pushed into improv by a friend and learned humor by studying, practicing, and taking classes.
- That deliberate journey made him a better teacher for non-natural funny people.
Email Jokes Increased Engagement
- Tarvin added jokes to his status-report emails and expected backlash, but teammates replied asking where the joke was.
- The small incongruous PS increased email opens and engagement.
Benign Violation Explains Laughter
- Humor often works via a benign violation: breaking expectations in a non-threatening way creates amusement.
- Surprise alone isn't enough; the violation must feel safe to be funny.
