Patti Vasquez with Matt – June 4, 2024

Best of Interviews - AM950 The Progressive Voice of Minnesota

Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy advisor. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, has appeared on tv and radio: Nickelodeon, TBS, WGN, ABC, and The Oprah network. When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company “With Kind Words” in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion. For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN radio. She is currently working with film producers on a project scheduled to start shooting in 2022. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the State Representative of the 19th District. She is now the healthcare and human services liaison and assistant policy advisor for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza. On August 2nd, 2021, Patti joined WCPT 820 AM with a talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders. Patti lives with her family on the Northwest side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.