Today we’d like to introduce you to Noelle Rhodes

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?

It’s funny how life works out. There I was, just living my life, deep into my mid-life—I was busy raising teenagers, trying to keep my marriage alive, and, you know, just surviving perimenopause and I had this friend who was organizing an event. She asked if I’d like to do stand-up comedy. Now, mind you, I had never done stand-up in my life. The closest thing I had done was post some funny sketches on web during the pandemic.

So, my friend says, “Noelle, you do funny sketches online! You should do stand up!” Now, you’ve got to understand—I had no idea what I was getting myself into. But, being the kind of person who can’t say no to a new adventure (and rarely thinks anything fully through), I said, “Count me in!”

The next thing I knew, I was on stage with a mic in my hand, sweating bullets, and wondering why I hadn’t just volunteered to run the registration table instead. But then something amazing happened. I started talking—about my life, my kids, my husband, and all the ridiculous situations I’d found myself in over the years. And people laughed. They really laughed!

It was like the heavens opened up and said, “Noelle, this is what you were supposed to be doing all along.” And that’s how, completely by accident, I stumbled into stand-up comedy in my mid-life.

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?

It’s safe to say that my journey into stand-up comedy has been anything but smooth. Don’t get me wrong—I’ve had some incredible moments that make me think, “Wow, this is what I was meant to do.” But those moments are often sandwiched between a whole lot of self-doubt and trying to juggle all the things happening in my everyday life.

Balancing comedy with a family has been like trying to walk a tightrope. On one hand, I’m pouring my heart and soul into growing as a comedian—writing new material, hitting open mics, and figuring out how to make people laugh without accidentally traumatizing them with tales from parenting teens and marriage in your 40’s. On the other hand, I’ve got two kids who are gearing up for college, and they’re looking to me to be the responsible adult. You know, the one who knows how to fill out the FAFSA form (which I don’t – send help – quick!).

But the bigger challenge, by far, has been trying to ignore that pesky little brat called “Imposter Syndrome”. Every time I’m waiting to go on stage, there she is—my inner mean girl. She’s like a 7th grade bully who won’t mind her own business, whispering things like, “Who do you think you are? You’re not a stand-up comedian. You’re just a mom who over shares to strangers about her hot flashes.”

Some days, it feels like I’m just faking it until I make it. But you know what? That’s okay. Because the truth is, we’re all just figuring it out as we go along. And if I have to wrestle with self-doubt to get to that sweet spot where the laughter rolls in, then so be it. Besides, I’ve been married for 21 years—I’ve learned how to win a few arguments, even if they’re with myself.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I’m a stand-up comedian who took a wild detour from being a Christian missionary to cracking jokes on stage. My comedy is all about embracing the chaos of life—especially as a mom and wife in North Jersey—and finding the humor in it all. I’m known for my Italian-American, New Jersey-inspired humor and my web series, *Philly’s Mom,* where I imagine what it would be like if Jesus’s disciples had moms like the one I grew up with—think a lot of pasta and even more opinions!

What I’m most proud of? That’s got to be finding a way to turn my past mistakes and the crazy adventures of raising a child with special needs into something that brings joy to others. I’m also really proud of being married for 21 years and still managing to make my husband laugh—when I’m not making him crazy.

What sets me apart is my background and perspective. I’ve been through some wild experiences, from working with kids in Northern Ireland to navigating the ups and downs of marriage and motherhood. My comedy is relatable, down-to-earth, and a little snarky, but always with a lot of heart.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?

My biggest piece of advice is to not be afraid to ask questions. Reach out to someone you admire in your field and ask for their insight. Most people are happy to share their experiences, and you can learn so much just by listening to someone who’s already walked the path you’re on.

I also think it’s important to stay humble and keep learning. Even though I have paying gigs, I still take stand-up comedy classes. There’s always something new to learn, and those classes are a great way to refine my craft and connect with others who also are obsessed with stand-up.

One thing that’s been hugely beneficial for me is having a “comedy buddy.” We meet regularly to work out material together, and the feedback is invaluable. Feedback is crucial in this line of work because sometimes you’re too close to your own material to see what’s really working—or what isn’t.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.noellerhodescomedy.com
• Instagram: @noellerhodescomedy