The Jollytologist®
Allen Klein’s life is a testament to the healing power of humor. From his early years in the Bronx to becoming a successful scenic designer for iconic television shows like Captain Kangaroo, Klein’s journey is marked by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering belief in the importance of humor and laughter. After losing his wife, Ellen, to a rare disease, Klein found solace and strength in humor, eventually dedicating his life to teaching others how to navigate life’s challenges with joy and positivity. Through his books, workshops, and the creation of the term "Jollytologist®," Klein has touched countless lives, proving that even in our darkest moments, we can find light through humor, laughter and awe.
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Meet Allen Klein
Allen Klein, MA, CSP (aka "The Jollytologist®") is an award-winning professional keynote speaker and best-selling author who shows audiences worldwide how humor can help them deal with everyday trials and tribulations as well as triumphing over tragedy.
Born in the Bronx, New York, Allen Klein has made it his life’s mission to help people find laughter in life’s most challenging moments. After losing his wife to a rare liver disease when she was just 34, Allen discovered the surprising power of humor—not just to comfort others, but to heal himself. That moment of truth launched a lifetime of inspiring others to face adversity with a positive attitude.
Before he was The Jollytologist®, Allen was the “King of Whimsy” at CBS Television in New York, designing sets for children’s shows like Captain Kangaroo. But after personal loss reshaped his perspective, he went on to earn a master’s degree in human development with a focus on humor (yes, that’s a real degree).
Since then, he’s authored over 30 books including The Healing Power of Humor, Embracing Life After Loss, The AWE Factor, and You Can’t Ruin My Day—spreading joy across the globe in 11 languages and counting. He’s given keynote talks in 48 states and far-off places like Israel and Australia for everyone from IBM to the IRS (yes, even the tax folks need a laugh).
Jerry Lewis once called him “a noble and vital force.” We just call him The Jollytologist®.
