Punchlines and Power: The Language of Stand-Up Comedy with Judith Shelton

Why do we call it stand-up? What do mob violence and comedy have in common? In this episode of Language Therapy, Dr. K sits down with Judith Shelton—comedian, actor, and professor of stand-up comedy and improvisation at the USC School of Dramatic Arts—to unpack the language and culture behind making people laugh. Drawing on her decades-long career, from The Groundlings to a memorable turn as Kramer's girlfriend on Seinfeld, Judith reflects on how stand-up comedy is shaped by combative metaphors: punchlines, killing it, bombing on stage. Together, they explore whether comedy can truly be taught, and where craft ends and instinct begins. The conversation culminates in a powerful reflection on stand-up as a humanizing force—one that fosters empathy, connection, and self-knowledge, especially in the diverse classroom Judith has cultivated at USC. Join us for a sharp, thoughtful, and deeply entertaining exploration of language, laughter, and what comedy reveals about who we are.