With over four decades in comedy, Cathy Ladman has built a career defined by sharp wit, honesty, and a knack for finding humor in the everyday. She got her start in New York City before making the move to Los Angeles in 1985, where she continued to grow as a stand-up comic, actor, and writer. Known for her relatable storytelling and self-aware humor, Cathy brings a perspective that’s equal parts seasoned and refreshingly candid.
Offstage, her life is just as full. She’s a proud mom to her 22-year-old daughter, whom she adopted from China in 2004, and she openly embraces this chapter of life with humor—yes, even the “happily divorced” part. Always busy and in demand, Cathy jokes that her calendar fills itself—and if you ask her friends, they’d probably agree.
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How did you get to where you are today?
I work hard, I have passion about comedy. I respect it, I love it, and I love language.
What do you think has helped you the most with your success?
Being funny helps. So does being smart. But working hard and being tenacious is invaluable.
What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome in order to achieve your goals?
I think my biggest challenge is overcoming what I leaned early in my childhood: That I am never good enough. Even though I know that is not true, it is something to be wrestled with.
What are you most proud of?
Wow. Big question. I think I am very proud of going on national TV and talking about being anorexic.
What are three pieces of advice you could give to our readers?
Believe in yourself, don’t let anyone else define you, and, above all, be kind.
You inspire us, but what/who are YOU inspired by?
What inspires me is courage. When I see someone courageous enough to speak his/her truth, in art or in any forum, that is truly inspiring to me.
How do you reward yourself when you’ve reached a goal or after a hard day of work?
I relax and I knit. I love knitting so much, it’s insane.
What is one sassy saying or quote that inspires you? Why?
For a seed to achieve its greatest expression, it must come completely undone. The shell cracks, its insides come out and everything changes. To someone who doesn’t understand growth, it would look like complete destruction. – Cynthia Occelli
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