Hailing from Detroit and launching her comedy career in Los Angeles, Kat Timpf graduated magna cum laude from Hillsdale College. Throughout her career, she has been remarkably active, skillfully balancing her comedic endeavors with her influence in the political arena.

Timpf attributes her ability to navigate life’s ups and downs to humor, which resonates with her audience through a relatable mix of hearty laughter and authentic emotion, with context being essential. On September 14, she will showcase her comedic talents at the Scherr Forum Theatre in Thousand Oaks as part of her “I Used to Like You Tour,” where she will also feature some unique merchandise, all while challenging the notion that one cannot have it all.

It’s remarkable how successful “Gutfeld!” has become. I mean, it’s not surprising; I was a big fan of “Red Eye.” I always found it curious that it aired on Fox News, and explaining its appeal to certain individuals was often a challenge.

Kat Timpf: Indeed, I was a devoted viewer of “Red Eye” long before I joined the show. I didn’t reveal this to Greg until a year after I was hired. I still find myself clarifying misconceptions about Fox News, as many people assume that everyone there shares the same views, which is simply not true. It is entirely feasible to maintain friendships with those who hold differing political opinions, a reality that has been frustrating enough to inspire me to write this book.

People often feel compelled to take sides, yet the reality is rarely so clear-cut.

Exactly, and individuals will label you a “fence sitter” if you don’t align strictly with one side or the other due to your independent perspectives. I’m not straddling a fence; rather, I hold diverse views.

I can only assume that both acquaintances and strangers have freely shared their opinions on parenting advice. I am uncertain about what to anticipate, and while I have received suggestions from individuals online, I find that less troubling than the outright cruelty displayed by some. At 35, I am categorized as having a “geriatric pregnancy,” which has led to years of disparaging remarks such as, “You lack understanding of the world because you don’t have children. Your eggs are deteriorating, and you will soon regret this decision. You are so selfish.”

Now that I am pregnant, one might think this would satisfy those critics, yet I find myself facing comments like, “Can you stop talking about your pregnancy already?” Some of these remarks come from the very individuals who previously criticized me! It seems that some people will always find a reason to be negative.

I also dislike the dismissive attitude of, “You’re not the first person to be pregnant.” I am fully aware of that! However, this is my first experience with pregnancy. Life can often feel monotonous, and there are few occurrences that evoke genuine wonder and excitement. After feeling emotionally drained for so long, I crave this joy! Why should anyone be upset that I am thrilled about having a baby? If individuals wish to offer me genuinely helpful advice out of goodwill, I welcome it.

The most perplexing aspect of social media is the realization that one cannot please everyone, especially strangers. Why is it even necessary to seek their approval? I have never understood why someone would begrudge another’s excitement over significant life events, whether it be marriage, parenthood, a new job, or publishing a book. Life can be quite dreary and dull, so if someone is genuinely happy about something, that is wonderful, and I celebrate their joy.

I appreciate your ability to respond assertively when necessary. Moreover, I must say that your new book is both powerful and revealing, showcasing your strength and vulnerability.

I have always been this way, but I also consider myself a sensitive individual. I explore this aspect extensively in my new book. There have been instances when people have made hurtful comments towards me, prompting me to reach out to them directly with a message like, “That really hurt my feelings.” In most cases, about nine out of ten, the response is an apology. However, in one out of ten instances, the reply can be even more hurtful, which deeply affects me.

The cover of the book embodies this concept — it features me in a vulnerable state, exposed and surrounded by hate mail. This imagery represents the rawness of vulnerability amidst a tide of negativity. I believe that sharing one’s vulnerabilities can resonate with others, revealing our shared humanity. For me, it also ties back to the importance of intention; it is crucial to assert oneself when faced with hostility. If we could all recognize each other as fellow humans rather than members of opposing groups, we might discover more common ground than we realize.

It is astonishing how people often perceive you solely through the lens of your profession, overlooking the fact that you are a person working to sustain your life. We are not defined by our roles.

This book is intended for anyone who has ever felt dismissed based on a single facet of their identity. A differing opinion, association, or assumption should not be sufficient grounds to disregard someone entirely. We forfeit so much when we do this. I recognize that this book is being released during a particularly divisive and polarized period, but my motivation for writing it was not influenced by that; rather, it was a response to it. I genuinely believe this book holds significant value, and it is also an enjoyable read.