Big Daddy Tazz
The Bi-Polar Buddha:
Mental Health Speaker & Comedian
For over three decades, Big Daddy Tazz has been inspiring and entertaining audiences across North America with a powerful mix of humor, honesty, and hope. Known as The Bi-Polar Buddha, Tazz brings a unique perspective to every stage — blending world-class stand-up with a meaningful message about mental health, resilience, and workplace well-being.
A veteran performer seen on Just For Laughs, CBC’s The Debaters, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, Tazz is as comfortable in a comedy club as he is in a corporate boardroom. His presentations use laughter as a bridge to discuss real issues like stress, burnout, and stigma — helping teams connect, recharge, and perform better together.
After years of struggling with (and finally embracing) bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and dyslexia, Tazz turned his challenges into his greatest strengths. For the past 30+ years, he’s been raising awareness and sparking honest conversations about mental health — proving that empathy and humor can transform any environment.
In 2023, Tazz received the John Candy Award for his contributions to comedy and mental health advocacy. Whether keynoting a leadership retreat, energizing a conference, or hosting a fundraiser, Big Daddy Tazz leaves every audience laughing, learning, and feeling better equipped to take care of themselves and each other.
Keynote Topics
Finding Laughter, Lessons, and Leadership in Mental Health.
In this powerful and entertaining keynote, Big Daddy Tazz takes audiences on a heartfelt and hilarious journey through life’s ups and downs—told through the eyes of someone living with mental illness. With his trademark blend of honesty and humor, Tazz breaks down barriers, challenges stigma, and reminds us that mental health is every bit as important as physical health.
We spend more waking hours with our coworkers than with our families. Recognizing when someone is struggling—and knowing how to reach out—can transform a workplace. Tazz helps audiences understand that seeking help for mental wellness should be as natural as going to the dentist for a toothache.
Those living with mental health challenges will leave empowered and proud, while others will gain a deeper understanding of empathy, inclusion, and the power of support. Everyone walks away with practical tools, a renewed sense of compassion, and a heart full of laughter and light.
A truly engaging session for organizations that want to build resilient, inclusive teams—and remind employees of the mental health resources available to them.
An Interactive Talk on Mental Health, Kindness, and Self-Love
Running AMOK isn’t your typical school presentation — it’s a lively, heartfelt, and interactive conversation where Big Daddy Tazz connects with students about mental health, positive self-talk, embracing emotions, and self-empowerment.
Through stories, humor, and honesty, Tazz shares what life was like for him growing up — being bullied for his weight, glasses, and learning challenges — and how he learned to overcome those struggles. His openness helps students see that they’re not alone, that everyone faces challenges, and that it’s okay to ask for help.
Students help guide each session by asking questions—either live or anonymously—so every AMOK experience feels personal and relevant. Teachers are also encouraged to submit questions, making this a true community conversation.
Each presentation is tailored to the age and grade of the audience, using engaging language, activities, and real-life examples. With his signature blend of laughter and compassion, Tazz teaches health care, self-care, and kindness—reminding everyone that “Always Be Kind” starts with how we treat ourselves.
Students leave feeling heard, hopeful, and empowered, equipped with tools to support their own mental health and to lift others up. Afterward, Tazz stays to chat one-on-one with students who want to talk, offering encouragement and reminding them that help and hope are always within reach.
Why Choose Big Daddy Tazz
We were incredibly fortunate to have Big Daddy Tazz as a keynote speaker at our 2025 Nova Scotia Workplace Health and Safety Conference. Tazz’s unique blend of humor and heartfelt message resonated deeply with our attendees, creating a truly memorable and impactful experience.
Tazz’s ability to connect with the audience on a personal level was remarkable. He delivered a powerful message about mental well-being while keeping everyone engaged and laughing. The feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive, with numerous attendees reaching out to express their appreciation.
Tazz’s genuine warmth and professionalism made him a pleasure to work with. He made everyone involved feel genuinely welcomed and valued. His post-conference note reflects the sincerity and passion he brought to our event.
We highly recommend Big Daddy Tazz as a speaker for any event looking to inspire and uplift their audience. His ability to deliver a meaningful message with humor and heart is truly exceptional. We look forward to the opportunity to work with him again in the future.
President & CEO, Safety Services Nova ScotiaMore than a Keynote Speaker, Big Daddy Tazz is a tour de force, linking mental health advocacy and comedy. Tears of laughter will be followed by tears of pain, and finally by a realization that we are all human and need support at one time or another. By sharing his personal stories, including his ongoing struggles with mental health, Big Daddy Tazz evens the playing field and illustrates our need for greater empathy, compassion and understanding. His story will reach you and impact you in many important ways. After hearing Tazz’s story, many folks are open to sharing their own struggles because they recognize some of the universal truths of human existence.
International Foundation of Employee Benefit PlansPSAI was thrilled by the reception Big Daddy Tazz received at our 52nd Annual Convention & Tradeshow in Florida. His candid storytelling intertwined with humor delivered an impactful message on mental health in a refreshing style. Folks in our industry have tough jobs, sometimes physically and emotionally. As a result, it’s easy to put up a tough exterior. Tazz’s keynote reminded us to slow down and recognize the humanity in each of us. When I looked out at our audience, I saw laughter and even tears from some of the least expected faces. I was amazed at the line of folks seeking to talk with him afterwards. Tazz’s message was clearly needed, and he knew exactly how to deliver it.
PSAITazz was sensational to work with! Not only was his performance a highlight of our event, but he went above and beyond to help ensure our conference was set up for success. His commitment to supporting our organization was greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend him for other event planners.
Manitoba Assn of Watersheds– I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation on Friday. Tazz was hilarious and heartwarming. He had me laughing and then in tears at the end. He was one of the best P.D day speakers ever in my 23 years at the division.
– I am so grateful to the school division for giving us the gift of laughter. How refreshing to have someone so authentic share with us today.
– He really was able to bring the issue of mental health, the struggles and triumphs to a broad audience!
– OMG. Thank you for this … my face hurts from smiling ♥️
It was so nice to have an evening where everyone could laugh and no one felt uncomfortable. Tazz proves that you can get laughs without being foul or offensive
CBC Winnipeg Comedy FestivalTazz was absolutely amazing!!!!!!! Everyone was laughing, a standing ovation and everyone left smiling! Incredible performance with a solid five star review from me! Thank you!
Russell & District Vet Board
