From Inventing a Microprocessor to Full-Time Tech Comedian with Don McMillan - Modern CTO Recap

Podcast: Modern CTO

Published: 2026-03-09

Duration: 45 min

Summary

In this episode, comedian Don McMillan shares his unexpected journey from a successful engineering career, including multiple patents, to pursuing stand-up comedy full-time. He reflects on the challenges he faced in tech and the fulfillment he found in making people laugh.

What Happened

Don McMillan, a former chip designer, recounts his journey from the tech world to comedy during his interview with Joel Beasley. He describes how he initially pursued engineering due to his aptitude in math and science but felt unfulfilled despite his success. Working at renowned places like Bell Laboratories, he realized that while he was good at engineering, his passion lay elsewhere. McMillan narrates how the startup environment in Silicon Valley was exciting yet stressful, leading him to explore comedy as a potential career change.

As he transitioned into comedy, McMillan discovered his true passion for performance. He recalls a pivotal moment when he was performing on the Alex Bennett Show and realized he was connecting with the audience, stating, "Oh my God, I actually am reaching people, I'm connecting with people." This realization solidified his choice to leave engineering behind and pursue comedy full-time, a decision he has embraced for over 30 years. He humorously reflects on his social life as an engineer, noting that his wife found him rather than the other way around, emphasizing the social awkwardness often associated with engineers.

Key Insights

• The transition from engineering to comedy can stem from a lack of fulfillment.
• Working in high-pressure tech environments can lead to burnout.
• Finding passion in work is crucial for happiness and success.
• Connecting with an audience can validate a career change.

Key Questions Answered

What was Don McMillan's career before comedy?

Don McMillan started his career as a chip designer, having worked in prestigious environments like Bell Laboratories. He became skilled in engineering and held multiple patents, but he found that despite his success, he was unfulfilled in that role.

How did working in Silicon Valley impact Don McMillan?

In Silicon Valley, McMillan experienced a vibrant startup culture that was both exciting and stressful. He was drawn to the environment, which he described as 'Nirdvana', but the intense workload ultimately led him to seek a path that was more fulfilling for him.

What prompted Don McMillan to pursue comedy?

McMillan's decision to pursue comedy came after he realized he lacked the deep passion for engineering that many of his colleagues possessed. He wanted to find a career that would allow him to express himself and connect with others, leading him to try stand-up.

How did Don McMillan meet his wife?

Don McMillan met his wife while he was already pursuing a career in comedy. She was the assistant to his manager, and after their professional interaction over a couple of years, they transitioned into a personal relationship after she left the entertainment industry.

What realization did Don McMillan have during a performance?

While performing on the Alex Bennett Show, McMillan had a breakthrough moment when a listener called in asking when he would return. This made him realize he was reaching and connecting with people, reinforcing his decision to commit to a full-time career in comedy.