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. 16h ago

    How to Create Emotional Safety When Someone Is Struggling

    What does it really mean to show up for someone when they least expect it? Registered nurse and nonprofit clinic manager Alicia Roberts joins the show to talk about supporting women and couples through unplanned pregnancies, what emotional safety actually looks like in practice, and why you can't pour into others until you've filled your own cup first. Alicia reminds us that sometimes the greatest gift we can offer isn't advice. It’s simply creating a space where someone feels seen, heard, and supported. Memorable Quote "I feel like someone is truly listening to me. They see me, they're taking time to hear me out... just allowing me to be who I am." What You'll Hear Alicia's "oxygen mask" philosophy — why taking care of yourself first isn't selfish, it's what makes you capable of showing up for someone elseHer go-to list for lightening a heavy load: quiet time, faith, her personal support system, time outdoors, and (admittedly) funny Instagram reelsWhat emotional safety looks like from both sides — truly listening without trying to fix, advise, or reshape the other personHow Alicia walks women and couples through unplanned pregnancy decisions with care, patience, and zero judgment — helping them reach their own decision rather than one shaped by fear or outside pressureLessons from her ICU nursing days: how a shared laugh with a patient's family, even in the hardest moments, can be part of real healing A note to listeners: this episode includes a professional, non-judgmental discussion of unplanned pregnancy options, including adoption and abortion, as part of Alicia's clinical work. These are presented neutrally as part of her role supporting clients through their own decisions, not as an editorial stance of the show. Resources Mentioned Alicia Roberts's work supporting women and couples through unplanned pregnancies at her nonprofit clinicMalcolm Grissom's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Alicia Roberts Alicia Roberts has spent over 20 years as a registered nurse, but her real passion is walking alongside people during life’s unexpected moments. As the manager of a small nonprofit clinic, Alicia helps women and their partners navigate unplanned pregnancies, connecting them with resources and support to build confident, capable families. A wife and mother of three grown children, she believes that with the right help at the right time, every parent has what it takes to succeed. Fun fact: she’s officially Malcom’s favorite family member. Connect with Alicia Roberts: Email: robertsda5@outlook.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

    How to Create Emotional Safety When Someone Is Struggling

  2. 2d ago

    What Does Emotional Safety Actually Feel Like?

    What if you could feel your emotions without being swallowed by them? Emotional strategist, Reiki master, and sound therapist Katherine Eiple joins Malcolm to break down what emotional safety actually feels like, why laughter and tears are often closer than we think, and how her Neural Resonance Method helps the body release the emotional energy the mind can't talk its way through. What You'll Hear Why laughter isn't only tied to happiness — Katherine's honest take on laughing through sadness, stress, and even grief as a way to soften into hard feelingsWhat emotional safety really means: feeling grounded enough in your nervous system to actually sit with anger, sadness, or grief instead of avoiding themA simple end-of-day practice for processing a heavy emotion on purpose — including where to feel it in the body and how to transition back to neutralThe story behind her practice's name, Eiple Healing — "Every Individual Person Is Love" — and the belief that everyone is doing their best with what they've been givenWhat the Neural Resonance Method actually is: a trauma-informed blend of talk coaching, Reiki, and sound therapy designed to release stored emotional energy from the body, not just the mind A note to listeners: this episode touches lightly on past personal struggles with burnout and substance use as part of the guest's own healing journey, shared with care as context for her work. Resources Mentioned Katherine Eiple's practice, Eiple Healing — eiplhealing.com (free Neural Resonance strategy session for new email subscribers)Find her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook: @eiplhealingMalcolm Grissom's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Kathryn Eipl Kathryn Eipl is an Emotional Strategist, Reiki Master, Sound Therapist, and Yoga and Meditation Guide. She is the founder of E.I.P.L. Healing, Every Individual Person is Love Healing. She created an emotional and nervous system regulation method, the Neuro-Resonance Method™. The Neuro-Resonance Method™ is a trauma-informed, integrative healing approach designed to help shift unhelpful behaviors, release stored emotional energy, and create lasting change through embodied, soulful transformation. Connect with Kathryn Eipl: Website: https://eiplhealing.com/Email: info@eiplyoga.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eiplhealing/# Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eiplhealingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/eiplhealing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-eipl/ Schedule your appointment online EIPL Healing: https://bit.ly/4o5Uw5y Complementary Gift = 1 Neuro-Resonance Strategy Session use code WELCOME at checkout. 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

    What Does Emotional Safety Actually Feel Like?

  3. Oct 2

    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

  4. Sep 30

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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?
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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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