I put my parents through mini hell with my laziness and poor grades, so I love making them laugh when they see me on television. When I work, I'm always thinking, 'Would my mother find this funny?' The belly-laugh jokes will hit her every time.

In this quote, Kayvan Novak reflects on his relationship with his parents and how his career in entertainment has allowed him to redeem himself in their eyes. He mentions putting his parents through "mini hell" due to his laziness and poor grades, implying that he may not have been the most diligent or successful student. As a result, Novak feels a sense of satisfaction and gratitude when he can make them laugh, especially when they see him on television and enjoy his work.

Novak's comment about always thinking, "Would my mother find this funny?" reveals how his family—particularly his mother—has had a significant influence on his approach to humor. His desire to make her laugh shows the emotional connection he has to her and the way that his career has become a form of validation for the challenges he put his parents through in the past. It’s a way for him to make amends and show that he can now succeed in a meaningful way, especially through humor.

The reference to "belly-laugh jokes" suggests that Novak prioritizes jokes that will resonate on a deep, genuine level with his audience, especially his mother. These are not just clever or superficial jokes but those that are likely to create joyful, authentic reactions. His awareness of what would make her laugh reflects his commitment to creating humor that feels personal, relatable, and impactful.

Ultimately, Novak’s quote speaks to the role of family in shaping his work and motivations. It shows how his past struggles with laziness and poor performance have fueled his desire to succeed, not only for himself but to bring joy to those who supported him. His humor, rooted in relatability and love, serves as a way to connect with his parents and show them that despite past difficulties, he has turned things around in a way that makes them proud.