Joshua Routh is not your average speaker—and thank goodness for that.
As a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), author, and founder of Circus Kaput, Joshua blends the heart of a leader with the flair of a showman. He’s known for swallowing swords, but his real skill is cutting through the noise and getting to the core of what makes workplaces thrive: connection, sincerity, and a whole lot less complaining.
With over 25 years of experience leading performers and producing more than 950 events a year, Joshua doesn’t just talk about culture—he lives it. His talks are part insight, part entertainment, and entirely unforgettable. Whether he’s helping teams embrace sincerity through The 'S' Word, or guiding organizations toward positivity with Creating A Complaint Free World, Joshua’s mission is the same: to help people show up more fully—for their work, their teams, and themselves.
Joshua has worked with everyone from corporate executives to underserved communities, and he's just as comfortable on a big stage as he is in a boardroom—or a circus tent.
If you’re looking for a speaker who inspires real change with real charm, Joshua is your guy.
Joshua is currently working on his new book, "The 'S' Word."
THE LONGER VERSION
With Bill Clinton while working the Florida Fire of 1998. Joshua is on the upper far right, second from the end.
Joshua Routh, a prominent entertainer, speaker, and corporate trainer, began his journey in the world of variety arts at age 12. He discovered his passion for performing after taking a clown class at a community college, where he started volunteer clowning at hospitals and nursing homes. This early exposure set the stage for a career dedicated to entertainment and human connection.
Throughout his teenage years and early 20s, Joshua refined his craft while traveling with his mentor, magician Jeff Lefton. In 1998, he took a break to join AmeriCorps, working on disaster recovery teams alongside FEMA and the US Forest Service. During this time, he founded ClownCorps, a group dedicated to uplifting communities facing adversity through humor.
Joshua’s commitment to entertainment and team building evolved under the mentorship of Hank Schafermeyer with the St. Louis Regional Experiential Adventure Movement (STREAM), where Joshua honed his leadership skills by guiding groups on wilderness excursions. Building on this experience, he launched a successful project centered on corporate team development.
In 2001, Joshua relocated to San Francisco, attending the San Francisco Circus Center and training under Master Lu Yi of the Nanjing Acrobatic Troupe. He became one of the first full-year students of the Clown Conservatory, earning the title “Class Clown.” During this period, Joshua began leading circus-based team-building programs for major Silicon Valley corporations, including Google.
As an artist, Joshua’s versatility is evident in his collaborations with companies like the New Pickle Circus, Ballet Eclectica, and the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. His performances have been featured at prestigious events, such as Major League Baseball’s World Series Gala, and for notable figures like Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Willie Brown.
In 2003, the St. Louis Regional Arts Commission recognized Joshua’s contributions to the arts with a CAT Fellowship. This accolade solidified his standing as a social artist, blending performance and community engagement.
Joshua’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Circus Kaput, a leading variety arts talent agency with over 50 performers catering to over 850 events annually. Through Circus Kaput, Joshua has built a vast network of performers, agents, and clients, mastering the art of connection.
In addition to his artistic ventures, Joshua’s corporate work has expanded into complaint elimination and leadership training. His collaboration with author Will Bowen on the global "Complaint Free" initiative exemplifies his dedication to creating positive workplace environments.
Joshua’s work as a speaker and facilitator leverages his diverse experiences, including his stint as a forest firefighter, where he learned the importance of trust, teamwork, and clear communication under pressure. He has since channeled these lessons into keynote talks and workshops that inspire individuals and teams to build authentic connections and achieve success.
On the small screen, Joshua has appeared in commercials for Maxwell House and Ameren UE, as well as on networks like NBC, FOX, and PBS. His television work also includes the show "Best of California" and the film "Class Clowns."
A lifelong learner, Joshua completed Seth Godin’s altMBA, authored the book "Mind Blowing Presentations Using the Element of Surprise," and delivered a TEDx St. Louis talk on the power of connection. He is currently working on a new book titled The 'S' Word, which focuses on sincerity in communication.
Joshua Routh’s diverse career reflects his commitment to the arts, community, and the importance of building meaningful connections. His ability to weave personal stories, humor, and practical insights into his presentations makes him a compelling and influential speaker.
