We were lucky to catch up with Jenny Run recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jenny, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is producing my first comedy special, which supported donations to NAMI California and Wags & Walks. The backstory of how this special came to life makes it especially close to my heart.

When I moved to LA to pursue stand-up comedy, I didn’t anticipate producing a special within my first year. But then, I had a horrible subleasing experience with a dramatic roommate—it was so outrageous that I wanted to write an entire special about it. Initially, my anger fueled the project, but by the time I figured out all the details, that anger had faded. I realized it would be wiser and healthier to redirect that energy into something positive. Instead of focusing on “hating,” I decided to channel my energy into love—and that decision shaped the spirit of my first special.

Creating the special became a journey of learning and growth. I dove into every aspect, from writing and performing to navigating the technical challenges of production. It was an intense process, but I’m grateful for how much it taught me about the craft of comedy and storytelling.

What made this project truly meaningful was its purpose. I wanted the special to bring joy to people while also encouraging them to support causes that matter—mental health and animal rescue. Hearing that viewers were inspired to donate to NAMI California and Wags & Walks made the experience deeply rewarding.

This special wasn’t just a career milestone—it was a turning point in how I approach challenges and use comedy as a force for good.

Jenny, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hi, I’m Jenny Run, a comedian based in Los Angeles. My path into comedy was unexpected—I started out as an engineer in the automotive industry. While I enjoyed solving problems and working on technical challenges, I realized I wanted to explore a more personal and creative side of myself. That curiosity led me to the world of stand-up comedy.

My comedy leans toward dry humor with a dark twist, often touching on topics that can be uncomfortable but are relatable in surprising ways. I’m still finding my voice and style, but I enjoy crafting jokes that make people laugh while also making them think.

One of the things I’m most proud of is producing my first comedy special in LA, just months after moving here. What made it meaningful was that it supported causes I care deeply about: NAMI California for mental health awareness and Wags & Walks for animal rescue. This project was a crash course in writing, performing, and production, and it showed me how much I still have to learn—but it also reminded me why I love this craft.

For me, comedy is about connection. Whether someone leaves my set laughing, reflecting, or both, I want to create moments that feel real and impactful. On stage, I strive to be my authentic self, sharing the joys and challenges of life with a mix of humor and honesty.

I still have a long way to go, but I’m excited about the journey ahead. My goal is to keep learning, keep writing, and keep finding ways to make people’s lives a little brighter.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

When I first moved to LA to pursue comedy, I faced a challenging subleasing experience with a dramatic roommate. While it could have been a negative chapter, it instead became the spark for creativity. Initially, I thought my frustration would fuel a comedy special filled with sharp observations about the situation. But as I began creating, it became surprisingly easy to let go of the negativity and focus on something positive—love and connection.

Instead of dwelling on frustration, I realized I could transform the experience into something meaningful. The result was my first comedy special, a milestone in my career that also supported causes close to my heart: mental health and animal rescue. This journey taught me that resilience is not just about enduring tough moments but about turning them into opportunities to create, grow, and focus on what truly matters.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal with comedy is simple but powerful: to make life a little easier and brighter for everyone. I want people to leave my shows feeling lighter, even if just for a moment.

Another driving force behind my journey is the opportunity to give back. My first comedy special was a way to do just that, supporting mental health awareness through NAMI California and animal rescue through Wags & Walks. These causes reflect my values and remind me that comedy can be about more than entertainment—it can also be a platform for change.

At its core, my creative mission is to connect people. Whether it’s through laughter, reflection, or supporting a cause together, I hope my work reminds others that they’re not alone. I’m still at the beginning of my journey, but I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and using my platform to inspire and uplift others.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennyrunjokes/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jiani-ruan/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToDUH4gTk2w&t=91s