comedian Heather McMahon has been making audiences laugh for years with her relatable and authentic comedy.

The Atlanta native grew up with a zest for life and an unwavering confidence, and she knew early on she was destined to become a performer.

Heather performed stand-up for the very first time at her junior prom

and fell in love with bringing joy and laughter to others.

She eventually paved her way onto the comedy scene,

and with the help of social media, her career skyrocketed.

In her two comedy specials, Breadwinner and Son I Never Had,

she shares the mundane, awkward, and tragic parts of her life.

She also hosts her own podcast, Absolutely Not,

which is her joyful take on life's craziest moments.

I sat down with Heather, who opens up about the joy that stand-up brings her,

how losing her dad gave her a new perspective on life, and how comedy has helped her heal.

I'm Jenna Bush-Hager. Welcome to my podcast, Open Book with Jenna.

Yeah. Heather, I'm so happy you're here.

Thank you.

Thanks for having me.

I'm happy to be here.

So take me back to Little Heather.

When I see pictures of Little Heather, it actually inspires me because I was that kid.

A little chubby. We didn't have similar aesthetics.

Yeah.

Surfer girl hair vibes or boy, depending on the angle.

...