Meet Paula Jane Newman of Rise Up Comedy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Jane Newman.

Hi Paula Jane , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Rise Up Comedy emerged during the pandemic, born from the understanding within Aware Meditation Inc. that people needed more than stillness — they needed to laugh to survive the stress of an uncertain world. What began as a wellness modality rooted in breath, release, and community quickly evolved into a powerful creative outlet. Today, Rise Up Comedy has expanded into Paint to Punchlines, a space where individuals learn to perform comedy by speaking their truth from a vulnerable, grounded place. The result is a series of heart‑centered shows, many of which serve as fundraisers for nonprofits, blending healing, humor, and purpose in a way that uplifts both performers and audiences alike. It also is now an ebook endorsed by Margaret Cho.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest challenges was that very few people understood how wellness and comedy could collide in a way that genuinely uplifted audiences — especially when ticket sales were supporting a cause. Over the last few years, it’s also taken time for students to recognize the benefits of approaching comedy through this lens. Many people are still hypnotized by the name of a famous comedian or the prestige of a club, but what we offer is something entirely different. Our approach is unique, rooted in emotional honesty, and taught by instructors who are not only skilled performers but exceptional teachers. As a result many students now perform stand-up and have bypassed years of struggle by finding their voice in a vulnerable and authentic viewpoint quickly.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We’re here to show people that comedy itself is a healing modality. Laughter has been scientifically proven to support the body and reduce stress — and while you don’t need stand‑up to laugh, we’ve found a way to approach comedy from a healthy, non‑toxic perspective. Our work demonstrates that it’s entirely possible to be genuinely funny without being abusive to the audience or other comedians. In fact, the humor becomes sharper, more relatable, and more human when it comes from a place of care rather than harm.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
We welcome support in many forms — whether that means taking one of our classes, which are offered at accessible rates both in person and online, or simply helping us grow by following and sharing our work on social media. We also love having volunteers at our events, including our upcoming May 31st Comedy and Wellness Show for Mental Health Awareness Month, where proceeds will benefit a recovery‑focused nonprofit. Volunteers and in‑kind donations are essential to making these community‑centered shows possible, and we’re always grateful for anyone who wants to be part of the movement.

Pricing:

• Pain to Punchlines Online Group Class 124 for 4 sessions
• One on One Coaching 50 per session
• One on One Pain to Punchlines class – 4 sessions, showcase prep and showcase

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.riseupcomedy.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseupcomedyclub
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/riseupcomedy