Comedy Legend TK Kirkland Shares Mentorship Secrets

TK Kirkland discusses his long career, helping launch other comedians, and his new focus on teaching entrepreneurship through government contracting.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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In an interview with Hot 100.9's B Swift, comedy icon TK Kirkland opened up about his decades-long career, the mentorship he has provided to countless entertainers over the years, and his new business venture teaching people how to become millionaires through government contracting.

Why it matters

Kirkland's story provides a unique perspective on the entertainment industry, the value of mentorship, and the importance of finding one's true purpose. His ability to navigate the changing landscape of comedy while maintaining relevance and respect is an inspiration, and his shift towards empowering everyday people to achieve financial freedom is a testament to his evolving priorities.

The details

During the interview, Kirkland discussed his early days helping launch the careers of stars like Sandra Bullock and Anthony Michael Hall, as well as his recent role in the success of comedians like Mike Epps. He emphasized the importance of understanding one's purpose and using that knowledge to strategically uplift others, noting that "a lot of people do not know their purpose" but he has known his "for a long time." Kirkland also revealed his new focus on teaching government contracting through his company TKGovConway.com, which he says has already helped one individual make over $600,000 in just four months.

  • Kirkland has been in the comedy game for decades, influencing careers since the Straight Outta Compton era with NWA.
  • He recently sat down for an interview with Hot 100.9's B Swift backstage at his We Them Ones Tour.

The players

TK Kirkland

A comedy legend with a decades-long career, known for his sharp wit and business acumen. He has helped launch the careers of numerous entertainers over the years while also running his own successful ventures.

B Swift

The host of Hot 100.9 who interviewed Kirkland backstage at the We Them Ones Tour.

Mike Epps

A comedian who recently gave Kirkland public recognition and 'flowers' for the mentorship he provided early in Epps' career.

Sandra Bullock

An actress whose early career was influenced by Kirkland, though his involvement was not widely known at the time.

Anthony Michael Hall

An actor whose early career was also impacted by Kirkland's mentorship, though the extent of Kirkland's role was not publicly acknowledged.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of people do not know their purpose. I have known mine for a long time.”

— TK Kirkland (Hot 100.9)

“When people speak to me, I know exactly where they are.”

— TK Kirkland (Hot 100.9)

“I put a guy on four months ago. He already made over six hundred thousand dollars. Legit.”

— TK Kirkland (Hot 100.9)

What’s next

Kirkland's new focus on teaching government contracting through his company TKGovConway.com is expected to continue expanding as he seeks to empower more people to achieve financial freedom.

The takeaway

TK Kirkland's story is a testament to the power of purpose, mentorship, and adaptability. His ability to navigate the entertainment industry for decades while uplifting others and evolving his own priorities serves as an inspiration for aspiring comedians, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking to make a lasting impact.