This episode is a refreshing reminder that leadership doesn’t have to be rigid to be effective. Jesper Maquindang shares how joy, play, and human connection transform workplace culture, energize teams, and help leaders move beyond command-and-control into authentic influence Episode 9. What You’ll Hear: Why joy and laughter are not “nice-to-haves,” but leadership essentialsHow play creates connection, trust, and long-term employee engagementThe shift from command-and-control leadership to human-centered leadershipWhy leaders who ignore joy risk burnout, disengagement, and silent quittingHow understanding different work styles strengthens communication and teamworkA powerful reframing of work: Are your 80,000–90,000 working hours filled with stress… or joy? Episode 9 Resources Mentioned on This Episode - Leadership Conversations with Jesper – Jesper’s LinkedIn Live podcast on leadership, growth, and development Episode 9 - Phamaly Consulting – Leadership development, team building, and workplace culture support Episode 9 - Leadership & Work-Style Assessments – Including DiSC and other personality-based tools for improving communication Episode 9 - Related Episode: Malcolm on Leadership Conversations with Jesper (play, laughter, and applied improv in leadership) Episode 9 Closing Thought (because this episode deserves one): Leadership isn’t about tightening the reins—it’s about lightening the room. When leaders make space for joy, people don’t just work harder… they care more. Featured Guest: Jessper Maquindang Jessper Maquindang is a Speaker and Leadership Development Consultant who helps leaders build high-performing teams. As a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), he partners with business owners to strengthen leadership and culture so the business can grow without the founder feeling trapped in burnout and overwhelm. Through his frameworks, assessments, and leadership systems, Jessper turns overwhelmed teams into empowered leaders, unlocking clarity, performance, and sustainable growth. At the heart of his approach is a simple belief: people perform best when they feel connected. Jessper brings a grounded sense of joy and curiosity into deep conversations about leadership, creating space for insight and meaningful change. Connect with Jessper: Website: https://www.famileadconsulting.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmaquindang Unlock Your Time & Boost Team Performance with the Delegation & Productivity Checklist A practical tool for team leaders to pinpoint where delegation is breaking down, reduce bottlenecks, and reclaim time. Learn how to identify low-value tasks, eliminate decision bottlenecks, and assess your delegation effectiveness so your team can take ownership while you focus more on high-impact leadership. Get the free checklist: https://famileadmanagement.com/delegationchecklist-4425 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
