FEATURE FRIDAY: Comic Toby Amir Fox on Being Funny, Kids, and Banana Bread

NAME: Toby Amir Fox

TITLE/COMPANY: Principal/Owner, Toby Fox Consulting, LLC

WEBSITE: www.tobyfoxconsulting.com

INSTAGRAM: @tobyfox.comedy

What happens when a woman can see a midlife crisis (and menopause) on the horizon? Why, you begin performing as a stand-up comic, says Toby Amir Fox.

Here, the funny woman shares her thoughts on comedy, kids, and banana bread.

We’ve heard you perform and you’re so funny! How did you get into stand-up?

I’ve been working and raising kids for the past 20 years. After my son left for college (BEAR DOWN, AZ!), and with two other kids preparing to leave, I started thinking about my next chapter. While lucrative for my therapist, wallowing in self-pity wasn’t really a viable option, so I decided to explore a new hobby.

A childhood friend started doing stand-up comedy a few years ago, and I had always admired her courage. I knew that I was funny, so I reached out to her on a whim and asked if she would include me in her next show. That was the beginning of my journey into stand-up comedy!

What was your first time on stage like?

It was exhilarating and terrifying! Sharing a funny story in a small group is completely different from performing stand-up comedy. I was grateful to have the support of my friends and family in the audience, but I quickly realized that I wasn’t as prepared as I could have been. That first show taught me two important lessons: I have the confidence to get on stage and make people laugh, and I still have a lot to learn.

How do you come up with your material?

I have been a writer in some capacity my entire life, and the best advice I received was to write about what you know. As a result, I tend to draw upon experiences from my life and family, especially my kids. They are an endless source of comedic inspiration and surprisingly cool when I share their mishaps with others. Especially since most of the time they say I’m “cringe.” Inspiration also comes from things I see online or situations that annoy me. I’ve always been opinionated, so my inner voice is thrilled to finally have a creative (and appropriate) outlet for expression.

Life isn’t easy, and the world can be a crazy place. Laughter has always been my coping mechanism when times get tough. Everything is funny. You have to find it.

Who are your biggest comedic influences?

Growing up, I loved Robin Williams and Joan Rivers. My parents were huge fans, and whenever they were on TV, I was allowed to stay up late and watch. Their performances were always smart, honest, and deeply funny. I mourned them both when they passed away because it felt like I had lost two of my heroes. I also have deep respect Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Paula Pell (among others!) because they represent the gold standard for being a woman in comedy. I’m pretty much influenced by anyone who makes be laugh.

One of my biggest influences at the moment is Tony Vicich and the people I’ve met through his comedy classes. The collaborative environment, feedback, and performance opportunities have helped me improve as a writer and find my voice on stage. For that, I am very grateful!

Where will you be next?

I have two shows coming up in May. On May 14, I’ll be performing in the preliminaries of the Funniest Comic in the Valley at Westside Blues and Jazz, and then on May 21, I’ll be performing with my Class Clowns Class at the Tempe Improv.

When you’re not doing comedy, we’d find you …

My professional career has been spent working as a nonprofit fundraiser for different organizations before moving into corporate social responsibility for a Fortune 100 company. After losing my job during the pandemic (do NOT recommend) and with encouragement from others, I started my own consulting practice as a nonprofit grant writer. Stepping out on my own was challenging and intimidating, but also one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. This choice has given me a work-life balance I never thought was possible, and I get to work with some organizations that work tirelessly to improve the community and the lives of others. And wearing slippers to work is a fun perk.

Favorite movie?

I love movies, so it’s hard to pick just one! Working Girl (1988), starring Melanie Griffith and Harrison Ford, is a movie I can watch anytime, anywhere. I love the story of a woman trying to climb the corporate ladder, plus the film contains one of my favorite songs (“Let the River Run” by Carly Simon). When I want to veg out and relax, Top Gun: Maverick does the trick.

Favorite places in Scottsdale?

I began hiking during the pandemic, and two of my favorite hiking spots are the Gateway Trailhead and the Lost Dog Wash Trailhead. Unfortunately, I’ve been sidelined with a knee injury for the past few months, so I haven’t had the chance to get out there as much as I’d like.

De Babel (101 and Raintree) is my favorite restaurant in Scottsdale. I love Middle Eastern food, and the staff couldn’t be friendlier. The chicken schnitzel sandwich very quickly became my go-to comfort meal.

What is something that we’d be surprised to learn about you?

I consider myself a mediocre cook (at best), but I’m a pretty good baker. Food is an expression of love, and stress-baking banana bread or cookies is a fun way to share with others. I also like to wind down after a long day by watching murder documentaries.

Courtesy Toby Amir Fox