Caregiving with Purpose, Hope, and Humor

Janay Marriel Smith’s life shifted dramatically when her father passed away suddenly and her mother was diagnosed with dementia soon after. Trained as an engineer, product designer, and lawyer, she became a full-time caregiver. She sought refuge in comedy—discovering both healing and a new calling. As “J Smiles,” she has since performed nationwide and abroad, sharing stages with comedy greats while weaving her caregiving journey into her art.

In 2020, she launched the Parenting UP! podcast to create a space for caregivers to “lead with levity because humor heals.” Now in its fifth season with listeners worldwide, the show has been recognized by NPR, FOX, CBS, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. A proud graduate of Howard University, Stanford University, and Cumberland School of Law, and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Janay also serves on Hilarity for Charity’s Care Advisory Board and Links2Equity’s Community Advisory Board. She continues to balance her professional achievements and advocacy with her most important role: caring for her mother, Zetty, in their 13th year of navigating Alzheimer’s. Her unique journey combines advocacy, humor, and resilience, making her a powerful voice for both caregivers and communities impacted by Alzheimer’s.