The Lighten Up Project

High Vibe Podcast Network
High Vibe Podcast Network
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Hosted by comedian and Applied Humor and Play Professional Malcolm Grissom, The Lighten Up Project explores how laughter, applied improv, and genuine human connection can help us navigate life’s heaviest challenges. Through honest conversations with comedians, educators, leaders, and mental-health advocates, Malcolm uncovers practical ways to reduce stress, interrupt isolation, strengthen relationships, and create cultures where people feel safe, seen, and supported. Because healing does not always have to feel heavy—and serious change can begin with a moment of laughter. Laugh louder. Lead lighter. Live brighter. Laughter can open a door to connection. It is not a replacement for appropriate professional care.

  1. 3d ago

    Bring Your Fear With You: How to Quiet Your Inner Critic and Take Creative Risks

    What if the thing standing between you and your most creative self is just your inner critic — and you could learn to talk back to it? Pioneering physical theater and improvisation artist Joya Cory has spent over 50 years teaching people to take creative risks, quiet the voice that says "don't," and rediscover the freedom to play. She joins Malcolm for a wide-ranging conversation on fearless creativity, collaboration, and why the arts might be exactly what a divided culture needs most. What You'll Hear How improvisation helps people move beyond fear and self-consciousnessWhy “yes, and” depends on listening, offering, and acceptingHow consistent practice can build confidence and quiet the inner criticWhy fear of humiliation can become one of the biggest barriers to creativityHow the arts and improvisation can encourage stronger human connection A note to listeners: this episode includes the guest's personal political views and brief references to family history with depression, shared candidly as part of her own story. Any political opinions expressed are the guest's own and don't reflect an editorial position of the show. Resources Mentioned Joya Cory's book: Two Worlds at the Same Time: Full Spectrum Improvisation for the Theater and Life (available on Amazon)Joya's virtual and in-person improvisation classes — joyacory.comMalcolm Grissom's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Joya Cory Joya Cory is a pioneering physical theatre and improvisation artist who has been creating, performing, directing, and teaching since the 1970s. Her work explores creativity, collaboration, movement, and fearless self-expression. She is also the author of Two Worlds at the Same Time: Full Spectrum Improvisation for the Theater and Life and teaches virtual and in-person improvisation classes. Connect with Joya Cory: Email: joyacory@gmail.com Website: joyacory.com Free Gift: My class tuition is sliding scale. Check website joyacory.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/ 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

    Bring Your Fear With You: How to Quiet Your Inner Critic and Take Creative Risks

  2. 5d ago

    The Stories We Carry: How Telling Your Story Can Change Your Life

    What if the story you're most afraid to tell is exactly the one that's meant to set you free? Licensed therapist, writer, and self-described "comedian, DJ, part-time assassin, and librarian" Johnzelle Anderson joins Malcolm to explore how storytelling heals, connects, and reveals who we really are — plus why laughter doesn't have to come from happiness to still be real. Memorable Quote "The most powerful stories are the ones that will cause you pain if you don't tell it." What You'll Hear The real reason we're drawn to stories: they're a container for connection, and being "witnessed" is how we feel loved, liked, and understoodA therapist's honest take on getting "stuck" in your story — and why the real question isn't "can't," but "what's standing in the way?"Why laughter doesn't require happiness — including Johnzelle's own experience laughing in session as a genuine, validating human response, not mockeryThe distinction between happiness (fleeting) and joy (cultivated, sustainable, and rooted in his three non-negotiables: peace, joy, and freedom) A note to listeners: this episode touches lightly on identity and mixed-race heritage as part of the guest's personal story, and on general emotional processing in therapy — handled with care throughout. Resources Mentioned Mixtape: A Memoir by Johnzelle AndersonJohnzelle Anderson's therapy and writing work on storytelling, narrative therapy, and bibliotherapyMalcolm Grissom's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Johnzelle Anderson Johnzelle is a licensed therapist by trade, and believes in the power of storytelling to heal, imagine, disrupt, and inspire. His writing focuses on mental health, race, relationships, and identity. He’s an avid reader and reads approximately 100 books annually. Connect with Johnzelle Anderson: Website: johnzelle.coEmail: johnzelleanderson@icloud.comInstagram: @johnzelle_Book Link: Johnzelle.co 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

    The Stories We Carry: How Telling Your Story Can Change Your Life

  3. Sep 25

    Four Inner Voices Every Leader Needs to Recognize — Part 2

    If you've ever caught yourself avoiding a decision because some inner voice convinced you it wouldn't matter anyway, isn't it time to figure out which voice you're actually listening to? In this second half of the series, Malcolm moves the Originator, Evaluator, Challenger, and Saboteur out of the slide deck and into real leadership moments — showing how these voices show up when people are actually watching. What You'll Hear How the Originator, Evaluator, Challenger, and Saboteur show up in leadershipHow laughter can create space between reacting and respondingHow emotional intelligence helps you decide which voice deserves your trustAn invitation to take the “What Kind of Laughter Leader Are You?” quiz Resources Mentioned Part 1 of this series: The Four Voices — the original breakdown of the Originator, Evaluator, Challenger, and SaboteurFree quiz: "What Kind of Laughter Leader Are You?" at laughterleaderquiz.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

    Four Inner Voices Every Leader Needs to Recognize — Part 2

  4. Sep 23

    The Emotional Intelligence Framework Behind Every Creative Block: The Four Inner Voices

    What if the voice in your head telling you you're going to bomb isn't something to defeat, but something to simply stop listening to? In this first half of a two-part series, Malcolm breaks down the four inner voices running through all of our heads — and why learning to name them is the first step to quieting the one that hurts you most. Memorable Quote "We don't have to defeat the saboteur. We just stop calling on it." What You'll Hear Meet the Originator, the Evaluator, the Challenger, and the Saboteur, and what each one is actually trying to doWhy the Saboteur isn't the same as the Evaluator, even though most frameworks lump them together as "the inner critic"How reframing the same scenario changes everything: the difference between spiraling and simply taking a noteA preview of what's next: how these same four voices show up when you're leading a team in real time — and how laughter, humor, and play can help Resources Mentioned on this Episode Julia Cameron's three-voice concept — the original framework (creator, judge, critic) that inspired Malcolm's adapted four-voice modelDaniel Goleman — referenced for his work and quote on emotional intelligence and resisting impulsePart 2 of this series — coming next, on how the four voices show up in leadership 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

    The Emotional Intelligence Framework Behind Every Creative Block: The Four Inner Voices

  5. Sep 18

    Is Anger Really Healthy? Stress-Testing the Spectrum of Anger

    Is it possible for anger and laughter to actually be on the same side? In this spirited follow-up conversation, Malcolm pushes back on returning guest Sandra Lee's ideas about anger, suppression, and healing—stress-testing her Spectrum of Anger framework and discovering they may be more aligned than anyone expected. "It's not Lee versus Grissom in the battle of the century. It's actually Lee and Grissom in the battle of the century.” Lee and Grissom vs. emotional suppression. What You’ll Hear Why Sandra believes anger itself isn’t the problem and how she distinguishes healthy anger from destructive or explosive behaviorMalcolm’s challenge: When does “expressing my truth” become an excuse for hurting someone else?How curiosity can help turn anger into understanding and communicationWhy expressing anger and exploding in anger are not the same thingHow childhood experiences can influence beliefs about whether it is safe to speak, feel, or express ourselvesThe surprising overlap between the Spectrum of Anger and Malcolm’s work with laughter, play, and the World Laughter Organization™Sandra’s vision for the Reframing Anger Summit, a free month-long audio event exploring anger and self-expression in families, business, relationships, and everyday life Resources Mentioned on this Episode Reframing Anger Summit — Sandra's free, month-long audio summit running throughout October; link: https://reframing.summits.fun/?aff=malcolmgrissomPodcast: Brain Health and Healing: Receiving Adversity's Gifts — Sandra's own podcastRelated Episode: Episode 56 — Sandra's first appearance on The Lighten Up Project, including a live demonstration of her tuning fork grounding techniqueLearn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Sandra Lee Sandra Lee is a Caltech-trained scientist turned Intuitive Sound Healer and Creator of The Spectrum of Anger™. After nearly 40 years helping people heal, she recently turned her focus to brain injury recovery. She hosts the podcast Brain Health & Healing, Receiving Adversity's Gifts. Connect with Sandra Lee: Website: https://miracleinspirations.com/Email: sandra@miracleinspirations.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-lee-701662250/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SandraLeeInspiration/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sandralee1miracleinspirations Free Gift: Body Symptoms Decoder What is your body trying to tell you? and what is it stopping you from doing? This guide helps you see the connection between suppressed emotions, symptoms in the body, ... and the thoughts that keep you from making progress. Decode common symptoms: * Jaw tension * Headaches * Digestive upset * Tight shoulders * Low back pain This isn’t diagnosis. It’s awareness. https://shinewithsandra.com/body 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

    Is Anger Really Healthy? Stress-Testing the Spectrum of Anger

  6. Sep 16

    Why Is Play Important for Parents and Children?

    What if being a better parent isn’t about getting everything right, but learning how to stay connected when everything goes sideways? Build a stronger connection with your child. Certified life coach, mother of 10, and foster parent to 17 children, Bonnie Butler knows the gap between the picture-perfect parenting you see online and the exhausting, beautiful, messy reality of showing up every day. She joins Malcolm to talk trauma-informed parenting, intentional joy, and why letting go of expectations changes everything. What You'll Hear The honest moment Bonnie's eight-year-old daughter told her "You're never amused" — and why that truth became a turning pointWhy joy doesn't come naturally to everyone, and how Bonnie learned to schedule play into her life on purposeThe power of letting go of "manuals" — the unwritten expectations we all carry for how people should behaveWhat trauma-informed parenting really means, and why the same situation can look completely different through a trauma lensBonnie's simple "STOP" process for catching yourself mid-spiral: stop, take a breath, observe your thoughts, and pivot with purposeWhy regulating your own nervous system always comes before helping a child regulate theirsA gentle, honest answer to the parent who feels like they're failing — and why every parent carries that scroll of self-criticism at some point A note to listeners: this episode includes candid discussion of childhood trauma, foster care, and a difficult decision around residential treatment for a child. Bonnie shares her experience with honesty and hope for any parent walking a similar road. Resources Mentioned on this Episode Free Guide: Finding Joy — Bonnie's downloadable PDF with tools for emotional regulation and reframing negative thoughts, available at bonniebutlercoaching.comATTCH (Association for Training on Trauma and Attachment in Children) — trauma training programs for schools, teachers, and families; Bonnie serves on the boardConnect with Bonnie Butler — bonniebutlercoaching.com, or email bonnie@bonniebutlercoaching.comLearn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Memorable Quote “Parenting isn’t perfect, it’s about growing together.” — Bonnie Butler Featured Guest: Bonnie Butler Bonnie Butler is a certified life coach, adoptive parent, and passionate advocate for families navigating the complexities of trauma-informed parenting. With training through The Life Coach School and Pro Coach certification, and specialized training in parenting abused children, Bonnie brings both professional expertise and deeply personal experience to her coaching and speaking work. Bonnie is the mother of four biological children, six adopted children, and has fostered seventeen children — giving her a perspective on family life that is as real as it is hard-won. She serves as a parent member on the ATTACh Board of Directors, mentors adoptive parents, and volunteers with foster youth aging out of the system. She has taught strengths-based workshops for young women transitioning out of foster care and brings that same spirit of empowerment to everything she does. As a speaker and coach, Bonnie works with parents who are in the trenches — the ones who are exhausted, uncertain, and still showing up anyway. Her approach is grounded in practical strategies, honest storytelling, and the unshakeable belief that awareness activates agency and that knowledge applied creates transformation. Bonnie speaks from the inside of this life, not the outside. And that makes all the difference. Connect with Bonnie Butler: Website: https://bonniebutlercoaching.com/Email: bonnie@bonniebutlercoaching.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075873774099 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bonniebutlercoaching/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/ Free Gift: Finding Joy in Life - A Gentle Guide to more confident, grounded living If life feels emotionally loud, overwhelming, or heavy, this free guide will help you slow down, steady yourself, and reconnect with joy - without pressure or pretending everything is fine. https://bonnie-butler-coaching.kit.com/542bfa3d9c 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

    Why Is Play Important for Parents and Children?

  7. Sep 11

    Can Comedy Actually Help You Heal from Trauma or Mental Illness?

    What if the shortest distance between despair and hope is actually a good punchline? Comedian, author, and mental health advocate Dave Mowry has lived with bipolar disorder and severe anxiety his entire adult life. After 14 years in the dark, a single stand-up comedy class changed everything — and now he teaches that same class to help others turn their pain into something that heals. What You'll Hear How a newspaper ad for a stand-up comedy class for people with mental illness became the turning point of Dave's lifeWhy almost all of his comedy is rooted in real, lived experience — anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and the moments that once felt unsurvivableHow reframing dark moments through humor creates new pathways in the brain, instead of reinforcing the old, negative onesThe powerful transformation of his student Molly — a former physician who found her voice, her confidence, and a new identity on stageDave's honest reflection on rebuilding trust with his son after years of illness, homelessness, and hardship separated themWhy Dave pushes back hard against stigma — including the idea that people with mental illness are fragile, dangerous, or need to be "protected" from their own sense of humorHis two guiding words: moderation, and "don't get stuck" — plus a few delightfully silly dad jokes to close things out A note to listeners: this episode includes an open and honest discussion of suicidal ideation and mental illness recovery. Dave shares his story with hope and humor from the other side of it — if anything in this episode resonates with you personally, please know that support is available. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by call or text. Resources Mentioned on this Episode Book: OMG! That's Me! by Dave Mowry — an award-winning guide to living with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and panic attacksBook: Healing with Humor by Dave Mowry — following five comics, including Molly MacNab, who found their voice through stand-upBlog: bphope.com — Dave's widely-read writing on life with bipolar disorderdavemowry.com — Dave's website, with links to his books and podcast appearancesLearn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Dave Mowry His story is one of resilience, healing, and hope. Living with bipolar disorder and severe anxiety throughout his adult life, he went from being a successful businessman to losing everything to mental illness. After 14 difficult years, a stand-up comedy class for people with mental illness changed his life. By finding humor in his experiences, he began his recovery and regained control of his life. Today, he teaches stand-up comedy to others living with mental illness and performs on stage, using humor to break stigma, share stories, and remind people they are not alone. He is the bestselling, award-winning author of OMG That’s Me! Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, and more... and Healing with Humor: Mental Illness to Mental Health One Laugh, One Joke, One Inspiring Story at a Time. He is also a popular podcast guest and blogger for bpHope, where his posts have been read by more than a million people. Through openness, honesty, and plenty of humor, he shares what it is like to live with mental illness—and the journey from suffering in silence to recovery, healing, and hope. Connect with Dave Mowry: Email: davemowry2@gmail.comFacebook: facebook.com/davemowry2Website: davemowry.com Grab Dave's Book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dave-Mowry/author/B00RM48MUW?ccs_id=62a5b602-62a9-4912-b183-6ebd2eac4f8c 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

    Can Comedy Actually Help You Heal from Trauma or Mental Illness?

  8. Sep 9

    How to Make Learning English Easier, More Fun & Less Overwhelming

    What if learning a new language didn't have to feel overwhelming and impossible? International bestselling author and self-described "decluttering queen" Kitti Andrews has spent years helping people simplify their minds and their spaces — and now she's turning that same lens toward how English is taught to newcomers. This is a warm, wide-ranging conversation about patience, play, and the power of taking just one step at a time. What You'll Hear The "upend the box" story: how one friend's blunt intervention turned a painful decluttering task into unexpected laughterWhy Kitti believes "lighten up" isn't just a mood, but a health decision — and what stress does to your body over timeHow Kitti stumbled into her new mission: decluttering how English as a second language is taught, one frustrating textbook at a timeWhy she believes English is "the global currency," and how fluency can genuinely change someone's income and opportunitiesThe connection between ADHD, impatience, and why cluttered learning materials cause people to give upHer simple philosophy for beating overwhelm: focus on just "one" thing, one step at a timeWhy making language learning fun and light — not silly, just energized — helps people actually stick with it Resources Mentioned on this Episode Fluent and Fabulous — Kitti's YouTube channel and website, fluentandfabulous.comDeclutter the Brain — Kitti's original decluttering coaching businessLaugh Play Thrive — referenced in the conversation, Malcolm's own business bringing applied improv into corporate AmericaFollow Kitti Andrews on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for daily fun facts and word-of-the-day contentLearn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Kitti Andrews For the last few years, Kitti has been helping people to declutter their space and brain; now she has turned her attention to decluttering how English as a Second Language is taught, so that our newcomers can boost their English confidence and earning potential, the fun and easy way! Connect with Kitti Andrews: Website: https://www.fluentandfabulous.com/Email: Kitti@FluentAndFabulous.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitti.andrews.21 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kittiandrews_mckay/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitti-andrews-87644055/ Free Gift: Test your English with this quick and easy quiz, and I'll gift you with short weekday lessons delivered right to your inbox! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1RlV59Igj8K2zIB_3P0jP-x2TqNwJQRqGIOpxnUNtIGQ/edit 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

    How to Make Learning English Easier, More Fun & Less Overwhelming
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Hosted by comedian and Applied Humor and Play Professional Malcolm Grissom, The Lighten Up Project explores how laughter, applied improv, and genuine human connection can help us navigate life’s heaviest challenges. Through honest conversations with comedians, educators, leaders, and mental-health advocates, Malcolm uncovers practical ways to reduce stress, interrupt isolation, strengthen relationships, and create cultures where people feel safe, seen, and supported. Because healing does not always have to feel heavy—and serious change can begin with a moment of laughter. Laugh louder. Lead lighter. Live brighter. Laughter can open a door to connection. It is not a replacement for appropriate professional care.

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