Army vet Robin Johnson uses humor to fight burnout, depression, and reframe the veteran story.
Army veteran Robin Phoenix Johnson, Hoover’s Veteran fellow from the class of 2024-2025, shares her journey from enlisted soldier to officer, mom, stand-up comedian, and mental health advocate. After a 26-year military career, Robin found her new mission: helping others heal through humor. She discusses the origins of her comedy journey, the science behind laughter as therapy, and how her program Hilarious helps veterans and frontline professionals reframe stress and trauma through a comedic lens. Her message is clear: laughter isn’t just medicine, it’s a leadership skill, a survival tool, and a powerful connector in a divided world. Robin also reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome, applying to the Hoover Fellowship, and encouraging other “Mustangs” and non-traditional leaders to claim their seat at the table.
Applications to join the 2025 Cohort of the Veteran Fellow Program is closing on July 31, 2025. Click here to apply now: https://www.hoover.org/veteran-fellowship-program?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=fv_vfp_2025
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