The Lighten Up Project

Hosted by comedian, Laughter Leader, and Engagement Specialist Malcolm Grissom, The Lighten Up Project is where humor meets healing. This interview-style podcast explores how applied improv, laughter, and joyful connection are transforming schools and communities facing serious challenges like bullying, suicide, and mental health struggles. Featuring stories from students, educators, comedians, and mental health leaders, each episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t have to be heavy — it can be honest, human, and hilariously hopeful. ✨ Laugh louder. Lead lighter. Live brighter.

  1. Why Your Body Holds Stress — and How to Bring It Back Into Balance

    9 HR AGO

    Why Your Body Holds Stress — and How to Bring It Back Into Balance

    What if healing didn’t have to feel heavy? In this rich and gently playful conversation, Dr. Michele Greenwell shows us how laughter, movement, and simple body-based practices can shift our nervous system, soften stress, and bring us back into balance—without forcing, fixing, or furrowing our brows too hard. What You’ll Hear: Why laughter is a powerful pattern interrupter for stress, fear, and overthinkingHow the body holds emotional filters—and how movement can quietly reset themSimple figure-eight and ear-rub practices you can use anywhere (yes, even in a waiting room)The surprising connection between hydration, anxiety, and emotional resilienceHow “lightening up” is an act of courage—not avoidanceDr. Michele’s beautifully grounded answer to the question: What does it feel like to truly belong in your body? Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Connect with Dr. Michelle Greenwell:https://greenwellcentre.com - Cape Breton Tea Company:https://capebretontea.ca - Watch Be Well with Dr. Michelle Greenwell on YouTube - Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences (link) Featured Guest: Dr. Michelle Greenwell Dr. Michelle Greenwell is a leader in BioEnergetic Wellness, an educator, award-winning author, and movement-based practitioner with over four decades of experience in integrative health, Tai Chi, and community wellness. She is the founder of the Greenwell Center for Holistic Health and creator of the BioEnergetic Wellness Formula, which emphasizes intention, awareness, activation, intuition, and community as foundations for self-empowered healing. Michelle hosts the podcast Be Well with Dr. Michelle Greenwell, where she explores the science and soul of wellness through conversations with artists, researchers, musicians, and healing practitioners from around the world. Her work bridges movement, biofeedback, subtle energy, and lived experience to support proactive health and resilience. She is also co-founder of the Cape Breton Tea Company, where thoughtfully crafted teas are designed as intentional rituals to support balance, vitality, and moments of pause in daily life. Whether teaching Tai Chi, recording her podcast, or sharing tea, Michelle’s work is rooted in the belief that healing emerges through connection—within ourselves and with one another. Connect with Dr. Michelle: http://www.greenwellcenter.com/ http://www.capebretontea.ca/ https://linktr.ee/greenwellcenter Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    41 min
  2. What Resilience Actually Looks Like?: Lessons Learned From Cancer with Savio P. Clemente

    2 DAYS AGO

    What Resilience Actually Looks Like?: Lessons Learned From Cancer with Savio P. Clemente

    What happens after life completely changes you? In this deeply moving episode, Savio P. Clemente shares how surviving cancer twice reshaped his understanding of resilience, healing, and leadership—and why true strength comes from honesty, surrender, and learning to trust the process. What You’ll Hear: Why resilience isn’t about “bouncing back”—it’s about adapting and evolvingHow laughter and joy help us reconnect with ourselves during hard timesThe powerful difference between controlling life and surrendering to the processWhy healing is never linear—and how to stop fighting yourself through itSavio’s “ALOHA Reboot” framework for navigating uncertainty and emotional overwhelmHow leaders can reduce pressure, think more clearly, and create healthier cultures Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Connect with Savio P. Clemente:https://saviopclemente.com - Subscribe to Savio’s newsletter: The Human Resolve - Watch Savio’s TEDx Talk: 7 Minutes to Wellness: How to Love Your Inner Stranger - Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences Featured Guest: Savio P. Clemente Savio P. Clemente is a keynote & TEDx speaker, journalist, and resilience strategist who has interviewed over 2,000 global leaders and experts. A two-time cancer survivor, he brings a deeply human perspective to navigating pressure, uncertainty, and life’s most defining moments. Through his work with healthcare, corporate, and high-performance leaders, Savio helps people make clear decisions under pressure, build lasting resilience, and lead with greater clarity and confidence. His message blends real-world insight, personal experience, and a grounded sense of perspective that reminds us even in the hardest moments, there is space for growth, connection, and lightness. Conenct with Savio: https://www.saviopclemente.com Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    53 min
  3. How Songs Can Change Your Life with Ruth Wishengrad

    14 MAY

    How Songs Can Change Your Life with Ruth Wishengrad

    What if the words playing in your head could actually heal you? In this powerful episode, Ruth Wishingrad reveals how music, repetition, and emotion can help you shift your inner dialogue, reconnect with your heart, and create lasting change from the inside out. What You’ll Hear: Why the words you repeat become who you areHow music helps anchor positive beliefs deep into the bodyThe emotional power of turning affirmations into personalized songsReal-life stories of healing—from childbirth to recovery—through musicHow to find (or create) your own “power song” for transformationRuth’s journey of turning inner messages into a life-changing practice Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Free Gratitude Song Gift (shift your mindset through music) - Learn more about Happy Heart Songs - Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences Featured Guest: Ruth Wishengrad Ruth Wishengrad designs personalized experiences that help others feel seen, loved, and celebrated. She is the creator of Happy Heart Songs, a heart-centered project that blends music, emotion, and neuroscience to create new ways of talking to ourselves. After noticing how deeply songs and lyrics shaped her own thoughts and feelings, she began exploring how repetition and melody could turn encouraging words into something people actually connect with and remember. With over 30 years of experience teaching, training, and coaching, Ruth turns encouragement into music that supports emotional well-being. Connect with Ruth: Website: https://happyheartsongs.com Featured Guest: Frank King Frank King, Suicide Prevention Speaker, writer for The Tonight Show for 20 years, speaker and comedian for 40. His speaking is informed by his lifetime of Depression and Suicidality and coming close enough to ending his life that he can tell you what the barrel of his gun tastes like. Turning that long dark journey of the soul into 13 TEDx Talks, sharing his lifesaving insights with corporations, and associations. He’s shared the stage with comedians, Jeff Foxworthy, Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, Dr. Ken Jung, Ellen DeGeneres, Dennis Miller, and Bill Hicks, as well as entertainers, Lou Rawls, The Beach Boys, Randy Travis, and Nancy Wilson. On top of all of that, he has survived 2 aortic valve replacements, a double bypass, a heart attack, and losing to a puppet on the original Star Search and has lived to joke about it all. Connect with Frank: https://mentalhealthcomedian.com http://www.facebook.com/thementalhealthcomedian https://www.instagram.com/thementalhealthcomedian/ https://bsky.app/profile/frankking.bsky.social https://www.youtube.com/thementalhealthcomedian https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankkingthemhcomedian Free Gift: Free 30-Minute TEDx and How to Make Money Speaking Zoom https://link.freezdigital.com/widget/bookings/virtual-cup-of-coffee-and-live Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    55 min
  4. Can Laughter Really Improve Mental Health? A Conversation with Frank King

    12 MAY

    Can Laughter Really Improve Mental Health? A Conversation with Frank King

    What if laughter could help save a life—including your own? In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Frank King shares how humor opens the door to conversations about depression and suicide—and why speaking up might be the most important step toward healing. What You’ll Hear: How humor can help break the stigma around mental health and suicideWhy vulnerability is the key to connection, healing, and saving livesThe difference between comedy and meaning—and why both matterHow to recognize when someone (or yourself) may be silently strugglingWhy “you’re not alone” is more than a phrase—it’s a lifelineFrank’s personal journey from suicidal thoughts to becoming a mental health advocate Resources Mentioned on this Episode Connect with Frank King:https://mentalhealthcomedian.comWatch Frank’s TEDx Talks on mental health and suicide preventionMalcolm’s improv + laughter experiences (link) Featured Guest: Frank King Frank King, Suicide Prevention Speaker, writer for The Tonight Show for 20 years, speaker and comedian for 40. His speaking is informed by his lifetime of Depression and Suicidality and coming close enough to ending his life that he can tell you what the barrel of his gun tastes like. Turning that long dark journey of the soul into 13 TEDx Talks, sharing his lifesaving insights with corporations, and associations. He’s shared the stage with comedians, Jeff Foxworthy, Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, Dr. Ken Jung, Ellen DeGeneres, Dennis Miller, and Bill Hicks, as well as entertainers, Lou Rawls, The Beach Boys, Randy Travis, and Nancy Wilson. On top of all of that, he has survived 2 aortic valve replacements, a double bypass, a heart attack, and losing to a puppet on the original Star Search and has lived to joke about it all. Connect with Frank: https://mentalhealthcomedian.com http://www.facebook.com/thementalhealthcomedian https://www.instagram.com/thementalhealthcomedian/ https://bsky.app/profile/frankking.bsky.social https://www.youtube.com/thementalhealthcomedian https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankkingthemhcomedian Free Gift: Free 30-Minute TEDx and How to Make Money Speaking Zoom https://link.freezdigital.com/widget/bookings/virtual-cup-of-coffee-and-live Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    36 min
  5. How Laughter Saved My Life (A Mental Health Story You Need to Hear)

    7 MAY

    How Laughter Saved My Life (A Mental Health Story You Need to Hear)

    What if one moment—one sound—could change everything? In this deeply personal episode, Malcolm shares the story of how laughter interrupted his darkest moment, helped him reclaim his voice, and became a lifelong tool for healing, connection, and resilience. What You’ll Hear: The powerful difference between the inner critic and the inner bullyHow a single moment of laughter can interrupt isolation and save a lifeThe hidden impact of bullying—and how perspective shifts over timeWhy laughter is more than a reaction—it’s a tool for connection and survivalThe concept of “stealing the show” and using humor to shift emotional statesMalcolm’s defining moment—and how it reshaped his purpose and mission Resources Mentioned on this Episode Go back to Episode 1 for Malcolm’s full storyJoin the conversation on the Lighten Up Project Facebook & LinkedIn pagesShare your story and connect with the Lighten Up Nation communityMalcolm’s improv + laughter experiences (link) Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    25 min
  6. From Worms to Wellness: How Laughter Can Transform Your Energy and Life with Cathy Nesbitt

    5 MAY

    From Worms to Wellness: How Laughter Can Transform Your Energy and Life with Cathy Nesbitt

    What if feeling better could be simple, natural—and even a little playful? In this uplifting episode, Cathy Nesbitt shares how laughter, movement, and even composting can help you reduce stress, reconnect with joy, and create a healthier life from the inside out. What You’ll Hear: Why laughter is the antidote to stress (and how to use it daily)The surprising connection between wellness, energy, and compostingHow to shift from overwhelm to calm using breath, movement, and playWhy adults stop laughing—and how to reclaim your natural joyThe science behind laughter: boosting dopamine, oxygen, and resilienceCathy’s journey from worms to wellness—and how it transformed her life Resources Mentioned on this Episode Join Cathy’s Global Giggle Gang (Free weekly online laughter club)https://www.cathysclub.comLearn more about composting + sustainability:https://www.cathyscomposters.comMalcolm’s improv + laughter experiences (link ) Featured Guest: Cathy Nesbitt Cathy Nesbitt is a Health and Wellness Advocate. Cathy is the Founder of Cathy’s Crawly Composters (est 2002), Cathy’s Sprouters and Cathy’s Laughter Club. She is a multi award-winning environmental innovator who uses workshops and inspirational speaking to motivate people to live a more sustainable life. Cathy is an avid cyclist and gardener. As certified Laughter yoga teacher who incorporates tapping, brain gym, qi gong and more. When we feel good, we do good. Connect with Cathy: Website: https://www.cathysclub.com/ ; https://www.cathyscomposters.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CathyLaughter Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathynesbitt/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559438955975 Cathy's Chuckle Club (est. June 2020) 9:30 AM Eastern Time, Every Tuesday 30 minutes of super fun self care. Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAtd-6prjsvG90wmlw3tRazNqiTzSG4Qq_s Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    58 min
  7. Does Laughter Lower Stress and Pain? What the Research Shows with Prof. Frank Chindamo

    30 APR

    Does Laughter Lower Stress and Pain? What the Research Shows with Prof. Frank Chindamo

    What if laughter wasn’t just a feel-good moment—but a scientifically proven path to healing? In this fascinating episode, Frank Cimato reveals how humor impacts pain, stress, and recovery—and why it might be the most overlooked medicine we have. What You’ll Hear: The science behind laughter: how it reduces pain, stress, and cortisolWhy humor isn’t just entertainment—it’s a powerful healing toolThe surprising research showing laughter can outperform traditional treatmentsHow laughter creates connection, emotional relief, and resilienceThe origin story of LaughMD and its mission to bring humor into healthcareFrank’s personal journey from comedy writer to laughter-as-medicine advocate Resources Mentioned on this Episode LaughMD (Contact + Book Inquiry) Email: info@laughmd.comBook: If Laughter Is The Best Medicine, Why The F Don’t We Use It As Medicine? www.LaughMed.com -is the book website for "If Laughter is the Best Medicine, Let's Use It as MedicineThe New Science of Humor in Healthcare"Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    38 min
  8. Wendy Liebman on 40 Years of Stand-Up, Timing, and Making People Laugh

    28 APR

    Wendy Liebman on 40 Years of Stand-Up, Timing, and Making People Laugh

    What if laughter could literally change your life? In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, comedy legend Wendy Liebman shares how humor, timing, and vulnerability can help you heal, connect, and step fully into who you’re meant to be. What You’ll Hear: Why laughter isn’t just entertainment—it’s healing for the mind and bodyThe truth about comedy: how timing, silence, and space create connectionWendy’s journey from depression to discovering her calling through stand-upHow humor builds community, belonging, and shared emotional releaseThe surprising science of laughter (yes, there’s a word for it: gelotology)Why finding your funny is really about finding yourself Resources Mentioned on this Episode Wendy Liebman’s website (shows, content, and free downloadable book):https://www.wendyliebman.comWendy’s interactive comedy exercises (Facebook community + punchline prompts)Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences (link) Featured Guest: Wendy Liebman Wendy Liebman took a class called “How to Be a Stand-Up Comedian” at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education in 1985. She has since appeared on The Tonight Show, Late Show, and Late Night with Carson, Letterman, Leno, Fallon, Kimmel, Ferguson, and Rosie, and won the American Comedy Award for Best Female Comedian. She has recorded specials for HBO, Comedy Central, and Showtime, was a semifinalist on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, and lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two rescued Jindo dogs, who are as trainable as a carrot. Her special Wendy Liebman: Taller on TV is available on Amazon. Connect with Wendy: Website: www.wendyliebman.com You can download a copy of her book SWEAR ON LILY. There's a link on her website! Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    37 min

About

Hosted by comedian, Laughter Leader, and Engagement Specialist Malcolm Grissom, The Lighten Up Project is where humor meets healing. This interview-style podcast explores how applied improv, laughter, and joyful connection are transforming schools and communities facing serious challenges like bullying, suicide, and mental health struggles. Featuring stories from students, educators, comedians, and mental health leaders, each episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t have to be heavy — it can be honest, human, and hilariously hopeful. ✨ Laugh louder. Lead lighter. Live brighter.

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