Whether you’re writing for page, stage, or screen, understanding how to “find the funny” can sharpen your storytelling vision and voice for writing in all formats and genres. Drawing from her years in Chicago’s legendary comedy scene—as a performer, producer, and writing professor—comedy writer Kat O’Brien shares tools from the trade that every writer can use in their work. This talk explores how finding levity and executing a “comedy punch-up” isn’t just about punchlines—it’s about finding patterns in power and privilege, pain and perspective, and owning our authenticity and personal truths. (Kat knows that doesn't sound terribly funny. She promises you'll laugh at least once, though!)

Kat O’Brien is a comedy writer, producer, consultant, professor, and mom. For over 20 years, Kat has worked as a comedy screenwriter and producer/consultant developing film and television for major studios, production companies, global institutions, and critically acclaimed filmmakers, applying her comedic voice to content of all formats and genres. During the pandemic, Kat executive produced the award-winning We Still Teach TV. She currently teaches at the University of Chicago, DePaul University, The Second City Film School, and the Iowa Summer Writing Festival. She holds a BFA in Writing for Film and Television from the University of Southern California.