Comedian Hannah Berner Swears by This Controversial Sneaker

Hannah Berner has come a long way since her Summer House reality TV days, but one thing hasn’t changed—she’s still making people laugh. Whether she’s finding humor in life’s absurdities on stage or cracking jokes with Paige DeSorbo on their podcast Giggly Squad, Berner has built an empire on her signature wit. Most recently, she’s bringing the giggles to her partnership with Lactaid. I got a chance to interview Berner at Lactaid’s Dairy Baddies event in New York City last week, and she had so many great tidbits to share.

From controversial sneakers to hydration hacks, Berner is all about finding what works—and having a laugh along the way. Whether she’s on stage, behind the mic or just enjoying a late-night chocolate milk, she proves that balance (and a little dairy) makes life way more fun.

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You recently unboxed a pretty controversial sneaker on Instagram—are they actually comfortable?

Yes! The New Balance sneaker loafers. When I have a work event where heels aren’t an option, but I also can’t get away with wearing my trusty Hokas, they’re the perfect middle ground—and a great conversation starter. I highly recommend them! I also love On’s running shoes.

New Balance 1906L Loafer Sneaker

Dr. Wenjay Sung, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist, approves of Berner’s pick: “I love them because they’re sleek and stylish while staying true to New Balance’s design DNA. New Balance has always been one of my top recommendations for patients because they create shoes with foot anatomy in mind. With the new sneaker loafer, they address a common issue professionals have with Italian leather shoes—expensive, uncomfortable and sacrificing comfort for style. It’s an exciting brand evolution, and these ‘sneakers’ prove New Balance is willing to push boundaries and redefine expectations.”

You’re busy with two podcasts, a Netflix special and a comedy tour—what’s your favorite way to stay hydrated?

I’m obsessed with hydration. Right now, my routine is filling up my Stanley cup with water and adding an Emergen-C packet. I swear, I’ve had one every single day, and I haven’t been sick in forever. Plain water is just too boring for me, so I love the orange flavor.

Do you have a favorite creamy smoothie recipe?

Oh, I love creamy smoothies. My favorite is a strawberry-banana one with just a little peanut butter—it makes it thicker and way more delicious. Then I add Lactaid 2% or whole milk to give it that ice cream–like texture. You could throw in some kale or spinach, but only if there’s peanut butter in there to mask it.

What was your relationship with dairy like before you discovered Lactaid?

It’s always been complicated. I’m half Italian, so obviously all I ate growing up was dairy—and I’m not about to stop now. Learning about Lactaid

and how I can still enjoy real dairy without the lactose has made my life so much easier. I love that I don’t have to cut dairy out of my diet because, honestly, life’s too short.

Lately, I’ve been obsessed with ending my night with a nice glass of chocolate milk—it’s the perfect nightcap while I’m watching TV. I’m also on a huge cottage cheese kick. And Lactaid’s sour cream? I put it on my chimichangas, and it’s *chef’s kiss*.

What’s your go-to high-protein snack when you’re on tour?

I have protein bars on me at all times. I think it’s my old tennis player instincts kicking in—I cannot risk being hangry. I actually have a phobia of being hungry on tour, so I always request protein bars in my dressing room.

What’s one food or wellness trend you wish would disappear?

I’m super anti-trend when it comes to food and wellness because my mom was a nutritionist, and I grew up watching trends get debunked. Like when fat was considered the enemy—then years later, people realized it was actually good for you. I think it’s important to be intuitive with your body instead of blindly following whatever’s trending online. Being too extreme with anything is never a good idea. Balance is key!

Editor’s Note: This interview was edited for clarity and length.

At the time of publishing, the price of the New Balance loafer sneakers was $302.