Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffi Tool Time
Hi Tiffi Tool Time, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was always the entertainment session at family gatherings, and I’ve always been a people person who loved making everyone laugh. As a child, when we couldn’t go outside due to weather or it was too late, I came up with an idea to keep my aunts, uncles, and myself entertained. I called it ‘Make Me Laugh.’ Since four of my relatives (2 aunts and 2 uncles) were younger than me, the humor was built right into it! Each person had to stand in front of the group and make us laugh. Whether it was telling a joke or doing whatever came to mind, the goal was to make everyone laugh and earn points. This was way before shows like Wild ‘N Out—I should’ve patented it!
Growing up, I was always known as the basketball star. I played Division 1 basketball and even earned a spot in the NCAA women’s record books. But as they say, life sometimes has a different path for you. My best friend Kiki always told me, ‘You’re so creative and funny,’ but I would always tell her, ‘No, that’s you!’ One year for my birthday, she took me to my first improv show at a well-known improv comedy theater in Atlanta.
The host asked if anyone was celebrating a birthday, and a few people clapped. I stood up, waved like the Queen of her empire, and the crowd started laughing. Then the host asked if a ‘Tiffani’ was in the crowd. I stood up again and said, ‘That’s me!’ They called me down to the stage, and they asked if I had a favorite birthday memory. I told them, and they started improvising a song based on my story. I joined in, and when the show ended, people came up to me, saying, ‘You were so funny! That was amazing how they kept you in the audience as part of the show and brought you on stage like that.’ I had to tell them I wasn’t part of the cast and had never done improv before. The cast members even came up to me afterward and said I was a natural and really funny.
I was just being my silly self, going with the flow. Fast forward: my bestie Kiki moved to a new place and asked if I could help her put together a lamp table. I showed up with a full Black & Decker tool set—and that’s when she realized I wasn’t kidding! It wasn’t just a lamp table; she had a TV stand and a dresser to assemble as well. She said, ‘Look at Tiffi right on time with the tools!’ I responded, ‘Get your phone out and record me.’ She was confused, but I said, ‘Yes, I’m Tiffi Tool Time!’ And just like that, I did my first skit and created an Instagram account under the name ‘Tiffi Tool Time.’
One day, I received a DM on Instagram from an account called ‘Pressure K,’ asking if I would be interested in doing a comedy set for their BBL Show. They had seen my skits and thought I was funny. I told them I had never done a comedy set before, only skits and improv, but I was open to it. They still wanted me to do the set. I did it, and I absolutely fell in love with it. The crowd was impressed and really enjoyed my performance. I was on a natural high and started looking for more opportunities. Soon after, I was contacted again for another set and ended up performing at places like Laughing Skull and Punchline Comedy Club.
It’s been an incredible journey, and I’ve learned that sometimes you just have to embrace who you are and go with the flow. I never imagined comedy would become a part of my life, but now I can’t imagine it any other way.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road to doing something I’ve found I love, but I can definitely say the journey hasn’t been easy. Breaking into this field has been a challenge, especially since so many people aren’t always welcoming to new faces. On top of that, I’m a lesbian woman entering a male-dominated world, which adds another layer of complexity.
One of the biggest struggles is getting a chance to even be in a lineup to perform. Each venue has its own rules, from the length of your set to whether it’s a rapid-fire type of performance or something else. Networking is key, but as a woman, it can sometimes feel like there’s a territorial dynamic. Other women may treat you poorly, giving praise to others while ignoring you when you’re trying to engage in conversation. It’s the same with some men as well. You quickly learn that, unfortunately, the industry can be tough to navigate, especially when you’re trying to carve your own space and get your foot in the door.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an influencer known for my comedy skits, like Tiffi Tool Time, where I make strangers laugh and feel better. I also write creating my TV shows and movies, create my own comedy sets, and train basketball players. I’m passionate about helping student athletes develop both on and off the court.
What sets me apart is my unique sense of humor, positive energy, and my commitment to fresh material. Every comedy set I perform is original, and I do it without looking at my phone. I’m also proud of stepping outside the box and pursuing these passions later in life, living without regret and embracing new challenges.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned on my journey is that not everyone will support you or be there for you when you need them. I’ve always been the supportive friend or family member, wanting everyone to win, but I realized that the feeling isn’t always mutual. I’ve learned not to focus on those who aren’t there for me, but instead to invest in those who do support me and pour more into myself, rather than into everyone else.
I’ve also learned that when you least expect it, what you truly need will come to you in the most genuine ways. For example, at an event, Gaye Magazine approached me for an interview, mentioning they remembered me from the BBL show and that my set was great!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffitooltime/profilecard/?igsh=d2hhcnNmaGFsZjYy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyKUzJblBwWA-nBSRq-REDQ
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tiffitooltime?_t=ZT-8uUpue9cJna&_r=1
Image Credits
@blacksnapphoto
www.blacksnapphoto.com
@mjq
@kikisymone12
