Meet Ilene Kruger | Teacher, comedian, and risk taker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ilene Kruger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ilene, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I read something years ago, that at the end of your life, there are two categories: “risks” and “regrets,” and that really inspired me. My parents also gave me the confidence to take risks throughout my life. Many years ago, I graduated high school early and moved to Florida, before going off to college. I lived with my friend from high school, and we waitressed, worked at McDonald’s, and had a number of other jobs. People said, “You are so brave!” I did not even think of it as being brave. I learned a lot from that experience. One of the lessons I learned was that you have no idea what the “server” is going through, so be kind, AND that some people (some customers) will never be happy. In addition, if possible, everyone should have the opportunity to be a server at some point in their lives….It changes your perspective. After getting a Master’s Degree in ESL (English as a Second language) and working in the corporate world, I moved to Japan to teach ESL for two years. Another life-altering experience…Japan is my favorite place in the world! Moreover, years ago, I was married with two children, and it was not a good marriage. I took the risk of getting divorced, and getting full custody. I see too many people who stay in bad relationships or marriages, as they are scared of taking a risk. Though I had to work three part-time jobs, while making sure that my son and daughter were a priority, it was worth taking that risk.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As far as a career, I have delved into quite a few things. I taught for years, and now I am substitute teaching, tutoring, doing improv, comedy, and trying to make a difference every day! I try to stand up for what is right, and over two years ago, I did a monologue at a theater about anti-semitism, and people who are anti-Israel. It astounds me that some people do not want to listen to facts and they have their own narrative. But if I can change one person’s mind at a time, it is worth it. After October 7th, I realized that there are people in the world whose goal is to hate and make the world less safe. It is unfortunate that some people are ignorant. My life, like so many others, has been challenging at times. But I have the love and support of family and friends, my adult children, and my husband. I come from a tremendous sense of appreciation. I have learned so many lessons along the way. One of the lessons is to try to find the “funny” in everyday life, and to make at least one stranger laugh every day…it makes both of you feel good. Imagine if everyone tried to do that? But I have also learned, that some people (and you know who you are), just aren’t funny!!! At the end of the day and/or a semester, I ask my students, “Did I make you laugh? Did you learn?” If they say, “YES,” then I know I did my job!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Hmmm…I think it depends on which “best” friend! I love hiking, so I would go with my “active” friends to Torrey Pines, Kate Sessions Park, Mission Hills to hike, Annie’s Canyon, and Rancho Penasquitos Preserve and walk to the waterfalls. My “lazy”….I mean “less active” friends, I would take to the Glider Port, go for a massage, Happy Hour at “Crust and Brew,” Porkyland, Crisito’s, the Sushi Lounge, Toda Sushi, Richard Walker’s, Chef ZHU…I love to eat! Oh, and my husband, who is a great cook, would make at least one meal for us! Oh…and we would have to see the sunset at Torrey Pines Beach! We could also go to The Belly Up, or local theater. My husband is a playwright, so we frequently go to different theaters. I love SDMT and The North Coast Rep!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have been fortunate to have numerous people who have supported, mentored, loved and encouraged me. First and foremost, my son and daughter have been there for me. They always believed in me, and helped me with my comedy Instagram account (@thejewmom). They were accepting when I did my ninety-minute one-woman show, even when they were so much of my material! In addition, they were patient with me, as I had to navigate going through the divorce, working, and raising them. I tried my best; and I believe they know that and appreciate me. My family and friends (especially my parents) always believed and believe in me, too. But most of all, my husband, Jonathan, who has been my anchor, my “kick in the “tuchas” love of my life. He has always been there for me, encouraging me to take risks, and continues to believe in me. I try to surround myself with people who lift me up, and I try to avoid people who are negative, pessimistic, or draining. Also, my family and friends who are sarcastic and make me laugh…they are the best medicine.

Website: ilenedkruger@gmail.com

Instagram: @thejewmom

Image Credits
I will download the images later this evening.