The Lighten Up Project

High Vibe Podcast Network
High Vibe Podcast Network
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  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

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. 2d ago

    How Do You Communicate During Conflict?

    Licensed clinical social worker and couples counselor Dr. Dan Sneider has spent over a decade helping partners navigate conflict — and he'll be the first to admit he's had to unlearn his own rigidity along the way. In this warm, practical conversation, Dan shares how playfulness, presence, and a well-timed check-in can turn tension into connection. What You'll Hear Why "lightening up" starts with learning to see the silliness in our daily habits — and how Dan's own kids have taught him to do it better than any class ever couldThe simple "temperature check" Dan teaches couples to use during transition moments, so playfulness never lands at the wrong timeWhy using "I" language instead of "you" language changes the entire trajectory of a difficult conversationThe communication belief Dan had to unlearn: that a calm tone of voice alone means you're not being harmfulHow to handle it gracefully if laughter or humor accidentally lands wrong in an intimate momentDan's dancing analogy for healthy relationships — knowing when to lead, when to follow, and how to stay fully yourself either wayA daily practice (a morning walk and a few minutes of journaling) that helps Dan choose joy and presence again and again, one day at a time Resources Mentioned on this Episode - intimacyshift.com — Dan's website, including a free PDF with steps and frameworks for healthier, more intimate conversations - Intimacy Shift Group Program — Dan's recurring program helping couples move from conflict to lasting connection - Dan’s website: http://intimacyshift.com/ - Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/growthandgratitudetherapy/ - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Dr. Dan Sneider is an experienced couples and individual therapist who teaches proven techniques to transform relationships. He lives in Asheville, North Carolina with his two amazing kids. His signature 12-part program ‘The Intimacy Shift: A Blueprint for Moving from Conflict to Lasting Connection’ has helped hundreds of people improve their relationships and is open to anybody ready to build or rebuild an intimate connection. Connect with Dr. Dan: Website: http://intimacyshift.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthandgratitudetherapy/ 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 Do You Communicate During Conflict?

  2. 5d ago

    What Makes a Story "Well-Crafted" for Public Speaking?

    Dubbed "Jim Carrey with a PhD," Dr. Danny Brassell has spoken on over 3,500 stages worldwide and authored 21 books — and he's convinced that most speakers are focused on entirely the wrong thing. In this energetic conversation, Danny breaks down what actually turns a presentation into paying clients: not polish, not perfection, but a well-crafted story with real intention behind it. What You'll Hear Why speaking is a learnable skill, not just a personality trait — and Jim Rohn's blunt reminder that "you can't pay other people to do your push-ups"How owning your vulnerabilities (instead of hiding them) turns a perceived weakness into a speaker's greatest strengthThe Five C's Framework Danny and his co-founders use to build a "well-crafted story" that actually convertsWhy facts tell but stories sell — and how to know which stories from your life are worth telling on stageThe "choices confuse and cause you to lose" principle, and why giving your audience one clear call to action beats giving them threeDanny's take on why audiences remember how a speaker made them feel — not the bullet points on their slidesA wild story about accidentally addressing 5,000 students and national media in India with a talk he hadn't yet written Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Free Well-Crafted Story Blueprint — Danny's complimentary guide to building your own signature story; available at freestoryguide.com - Book: A Well-Crafted Story: Helping Entrepreneurs and Organizations Use Storytelling to Connect, Engage, and Convert by Danny Brassell, Coach Jimmy Hayes Nelson, and Dave Ward - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Danny Brassell A highly-sought after speaker, trainer and coach known as “Jim Carrey with a Ph.D.,” Dr. Danny Brassell (www.DannyBrassell.com) has spoken to over 3,500 audiences worldwide. He has authored 21 books, including Leadership Begins with Motivation and Misfits and Crackpots. The co-founder of WellCrafted Story™, Danny helps entrepreneurs, individuals and organizations leverage speaking on stages as a major client lead source that converts. Connect with Danny: Website: www.wellcraftedstoryworkshop.com Youtibe: https://www.YouTube.com/DannyBrassell X: https://www.twitter.com/DannyBrassell Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/DannyBrassell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannybrassell/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realDannyBrassell The Greatest Leader in the World: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=danny+brassell&i=stripbooks&ref=nb_sb_noss Gift: The Storytelling Blueprint - www.freeSTORYguide.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

    What Makes a Story "Well-Crafted" for Public Speaking?

  3. Jul 24

    How Do You Rebuild Your Life After a Major Mistake?

    What does it take to rebuild your life after everything falls apart? Matt Melvin knows firsthand. After a life-altering mistake led him through incarceration, isolation, and real adversity, he found his way back — not by dwelling on what happened to him, but by choosing to become a thriver. This is a conversation about forgiveness, accountability, and the daily choice to live authentically. What You'll Hear Why Matt believes life is a series of choices — and how choosing fun, laughter, and gratitude changed the entire trajectory of his lifeThe moment that became his line in the sand: a near-death experience that pushed him to finally break a painful, repeating cycleWhat forgiveness really looked like for Matt — both forgiving others and, harder still, learning to forgive and love himselfWhy finding someone who will be direct and honest with you (instead of sugarcoating) is one of the most important relationships you can buildA simple framework for evaluating your relationships: how much value is this person really bringing into your life?Matt's daily disciplines — prayer, exercise, journaling, and healthy habits — that carried him through solitary confinement and still ground him todayHis one-sentence takeaway for listeners: forgive yourself, forgive others; love yourself, love others Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Book: Bullied Behind Bars by Matt Melvin — Matt's memoir reflecting on incarceration, faith, identity, and rebuilding after everything falls apart; link in show notes - Episode 3, Season 1: "The Humor Tree" — where Malcolm defines humor and introduces the broader concept of play referenced in this conversation - "Not for Everyone" by Brothers Osborne — the song Matt calls his personal anthem - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: When Matthew Melvin started working at a car dealership in South Burlington, Vermont, he never thought that one mistake would lead to a life-changing stint in prison. Feeling he wasn’t being paid his full commissions on car sales, he made an impulsive decision to get what he felt he was owed. He hatched a badly-thought out plot to steal a car, sell it as his own and keep the profits. However, a basic reference and background check quickly revealed that the vehicle’s title was not in his name, but still belonged to the dealership. He was arrested and sentenced to prison. While Matthew has taken responsibility for his poor life choices, he believes he has been treated unfairly due to his sexual orientation, religious and political affiliations, and his adult diagnosis of autism. While he and his lawyer argued that his punishment would be best served in a mental health facility, Matt was unfortunately sentenced to 18 months in prison to be served in general population. Terrified and alone, Matthew began his prison term with the best of intentions—to keep his head down and serve his time as uneventfully as possible. But being a gay, Christian, Trump supporter brought him unwanted and negative attention. He was bullied by cellmates, targeted by gangs and even raped in one facility. The months he was imprisoned felt like decades and there were times he doubted he would make it out alive. Bullied Behind Bars chronicles Matthew Melvin’s life feeling like an outcast, enduring a lonely and friendless childhood, and being punished for a crime that began with the honorable goal of him just trying to make a living. Connect with Matthew: Website: www.bulliedbehindbars.com Instagram: Bulliedbehindbars X: Barsbullied Facebook: Matthew.Melvin.5621 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 Do You Rebuild Your Life After a Major Mistake?

  4. Jul 22

    Why High Performers Struggle with Intimacy — and How to Fix It

    Former professional Muay Thai fighter Hannah Dalby spent a decade in the ring before discovering that success in one area of life doesn't automatically translate to another. Now a somatic practitioner and founder of Human Integration, she helps high-achieving leaders release the unconscious triggers driving their relationship patterns — trading reactivity and disconnection for real presence, intimacy, and connection. What You'll Hear Why Hannah walked away from fighting for Australian titles to save the business she and her father built — and what she discovered in the space that fighting left behindHow Human Integration developed almost by accident: what started as physical recovery work began dissolving addictions, healing relationships, and launching new businessesWhy so many high performers succeed at work but struggle with intimacy — and how "doing" becomes a lifelong avoidance of feelingThe real difference between control and true emotional regulation, and why forced play is just another item on the to-do listWhat actually happens in the body during a Human Integration session — and why getting the charge out matters more than understanding where it came fromThe surprising overlap between Hannah's somatic work and Malcolm's improv training — both get people out of their heads and back into honest, unscripted presenceOne simple pattern-interrupt you can use today: pause and ask your body what it's actually feelingHannah's answer to what true connection really requires — becoming present with yourself first Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Integration Gap Assessment — Hannah's free AI-powered tool to help you identify your relationship patterns; visit integratedaf.com - The Jungle — Hannah's business website: thejungle.net.au - Follow Hannah Dalby on Instagram for more on Human Integration and somatic work - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: If you are a high performer, founder or leader who has built success in business but keeps finding yourself stuck in the same relationship patterns, reacting from triggers you cannot control, or feeling more disconnected at home the more you achieve at work, you will love this episode. Hannah Dalby is a Human Integration Facilitator, CEO of The Jungle, and former professional Muay Thai fighter who spent a decade competing professionally before developing Human Integration, a precise somatic process that identifies and releases the unconscious triggers driving relationship patterns at the root. A decade clean, she works with leaders and founders globally to help them experience the intimacy, safety and genuine connection that their external success has never been able to buy them. Connect with Hannah: Website: https://thejungle.net.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryjungle/ https://www.instagram.com/hannah.dalby https://www.instagram.com/intothejungle_podcast/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IntoTheJungle-HannahDalby Gift: The Integration Gap Assessment - https://chatgpt.com/g/g-69cf265da4cc81919dd1cb332e11baf6-the-integration-gap-assessment-by-hannah-dalby 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 High Performers Struggle with Intimacy — and How to Fix It

  5. Jul 17

    How Songs Can Change Your Life with Ruth Wishengrad (Encore)

    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

    How Songs Can Change Your Life with Ruth Wishengrad (Encore)

  6. Jul 15

    How Do You Build Courage When You're Terrified of What People Will Think?

    Marine veteran, lifelong entrepreneur, bestselling author, and self-described unicorn Gwen Patrone has spent four decades proving that courage isn't the absence of fear — it's knowing the danger and doing it anyway. In this bold, laugh-filled conversation, she shares how laughter lowers the shield, why small 60-second wins compound into real bravery, and what it took to walk into a hotel lobby in a mini skirt and own every second of it. What You'll Hear Why courage isn't about avoiding fear — it's about recognizing it, naming it, and repurposing it as a tool (straight from the Marine Corps playbook)How laughter melts the "Captain America shield" people carry into every room — and why Gwen uses humor to let the real her enter people's world before her reputation doesThe WIIFM principle ("What's In It For Me") — everybody's favorite radio station — and what it teaches us about how to stop waiting for people to accept us and just go for itThe Relief Valve Method and Marksmanship for the Mind: two military-inspired techniques from Dysphoria Hacks for defusing fear before it freezes youWhy you don't have to hit a grand slam every time — the power of 60-second micro-wins and how small courageous acts compound like interestGwen's honest take on the collateral damage of living authentically: fewer close friends, real loneliness, and why the pot at the end of the rainbow is still worth every step of the climbTwo Truths and a Lie: Jodie Foster, Top Chef, and a high school full of artistic talent — find out which one is the lie Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Book: Dysphoria Hacks by Gwen Patrone (with workbook) — military-inspired tactics for turning fear, anxiety, and discomfort into courage; available on Amazon - Book: WIZ Kids: Stories of Empowerment by Gwen Patrone — a children's book series featuring animal characters designed for parents and kids to read and discuss together - Book: Trans Truth by Gwen Patrone — a guide to navigating the gender spectrum and finding your own clarity - Veterans Coffee — Gwen's GoFundMe-backed charity effort to support veteran mental health and PTSD service animal programs - "Make Your Bed" — Admiral William H. McRaven's famous commencement speech (referenced in the discussion on small acts of courage) - Learn more about Malcolm and his work at the World Laughter Organization™ - Gwen’s website: Dysphoriahacks.com Featured Guest: Dr. Gwen Patrone Gwen is a lifelong entrepreneur, USMC veteran, restauranteur, best selling author and proud parent. She's dedicated the last 40 years to educating in leadership, entrepreneurship ventures and helping tens of thousands of people around the world through print, audio, video and stage presentations. Her most recent book called Dysphoria Hacks tackles the emotion of fear using Marine Military tactics to redirect and repurpose fear. Connect with Dr. Gwen: Website: Dysphoriahacks.com Gift: Free 90 minute zoom on methods anyone can use to generate income from home GetWealthyWithGwen.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

    How Do You Build Courage When You're Terrified of What People Will Think?

  7. Jul 10

    How Can EQ Help Leaders Succeed in the Age of AI?

    If you've ever rolled out a change initiative and heard nothing but crickets, this episode is your wake-up call. Dr. Diane Dye — organizational change expert, founder of People Risk Consulting, and returning Lighten Up Nation favorite — breaks down why the hardest part of transformation isn't the strategy, it's the people. And why the bravest thing a leader can do is stop talking and start listening. What You'll Hear Why the leader's job is to "listen then lead" — not the other way around — and what happens to the companies that get it backwardsThe difference between signal and noise in change management, and how to tune into the repeating theme that actually points the way forwardHow selection bias quietly becomes confirmation bias, and why the leader who only hears what they want to hear is building a product with a "presupposed market that may not exist"What psychological safety really is, why it starts with yourself before it can exist in your team, and how one leader with a safe presence can change everything — even inside a toxic organizationThe red pill moment: Dr. Dye's honest confession about hitting year ten, grinding hard, and finally asking the question she'd been afraid to ask all alongWhy The Matrix and Project Hail Mary are actually the best change management case studies nobody's teaching in business schoolWhere play, laughter, and adventure fit inside a change process — and why some of the best ideas happen when teams travel togetherDr. Dye's hope for the future: an EQ renaissance, as AI takes over the IQ work and human-centered leadership becomes the only true differentiator Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Book: Creating Critical Opportunity by Dr. Diane Dye — available on Amazon; not just for business leaders — listeners are using it to navigate major life changes too - The Braver Innovation Framework — Dr. Dye's research-backed tool for identifying and challenging the biases that block bold leadership; free monthly trainings available via LinkedIn - Connect with Dr. Diane Dye — LinkedIn: Dr. Diane Dye (she's in her own DMs) - John Kotter's Change Framework and McKinsey 7S — referenced in the discussion on change management and listening - Related Episode: The Lighten Up Project, Season 1, Episode 2 — "The Humor Tree," where Malcolm introduces the Find Your Funny Formula™ - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Dr. Diane Dye, founder of People Risk Consulting, author of the Creating Critical Opportunity workbook, helps CEOs eliminate the hidden people risks that stall transformation. With a doctorate in Organizational Change & Leadership and a Masters in Communication Management from the University of Southern California, she blends research-backed frameworks with pop-culture storytelling to tackle CEO isolation, build psychological safety, and turn critical challenges into breakthrough opportunities. Connect with Dr. Diane: Website: https://peopleriskconsulting.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdianedye/ 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 Can EQ Help Leaders Succeed in the Age of AI?

  8. Jul 7

    How Do You Recover from Burnout When You're Successful but Empty Inside?

    Alignment coach, bestselling author, and singer-songwriter Kassandra Hamilton knows what it feels like to be wildly successful on the outside while running on empty on the inside. In this rich, wide-ranging conversation, she shares her four-phase framework for going from burnout to clarity — and why the power to get there has been inside you all along. What You'll Hear The four phases of Kassandra's "Realigning from the Inside Out" framework: Observe, Understand, Break Free, and Live from the Inside Out — and how each one brings you back to yourselfWhy "overgiving isn't love" — and the hard lesson Kassandra would write to her younger self about boundaries, burnout, and filling your own cup firstHow forced laughter is still energy in motion — and why even a non-genuine laugh can break a downward spiral and shift your awarenessThe airport security analogy that explains why speaking your needs (without blame) is always the answer when life feels like it's rushing youWhat alignment actually feels like in the body: not an adrenaline rush, but a quiet, alive sense of "this is why I'm here"Why Kassandra believes healing doesn't have to feel heavy — it can be fascinating, funny, and even fun to participate inThe simple perspective shift she uses in road rage moments: zooming out to remember we're spinning on a rock in the universe — and suddenly the traffic doesn't matter quite as much Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Book: The Magic of Realigning from the Inside Out by Kassandra Hamilton — available on Amazon - Book: Cracking the Rich Code — a collaborative project featuring Kassandra's chapter on using AI for positive impact - Website: www.readysetrealign.ca — book a virtual coffee or learn more about her one-on-one and group offerings - Instagram: @Cassandra_Hamilton - Related Episode: The Lighten Up Project, Season 1, Episode 2 — "The Humor Tree," where Malcolm defines humor and introduces the Find Your Funny Formula™ - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™ Featured Guest: Kassandra Hamilton is a bestselling author, speaker, and founder of Ready Set Realign, where she helps high-achieving women realign their lives from the inside out - moving beyond burnout, misalignment, and the quiet drift into autopilot. With a Master’s in Global Health and over a decade of experience in digital health, including work alongside Indigenous communities, Kassandra brings a rare perspective that bridges science, lived experience, and human-centered systems. Her work is grounded in the understanding that sustainable change doesn’t come from forcing people to fit into broken systems - but from reconnecting individuals to their inner clarity, capacity, and truth. After stepping away from a traditional medical path and navigating her own healing journey, Kassandra integrates nervous system awareness, bio-energetic healing, and practical alignment tools to help individuals reclaim their power, boundaries, and direction. She is the author of The Magic of Realigning from the Inside Out, a guide for those ready to stop shrinking and start living in alignment with who they truly are. Her work now extends beyond individual transformation into organizational and societal impact. Kassandra speaks on the intersection of burnout, leadership, and system design—challenging the idea that either people or systems need to be “fixed.” Instead, she advocates for a more honest and sustainable path forward: recognizing both as inherently imperfect, and building bridges between them that allow for growth, adaptability, and shared responsibility. She is also a voice in the evolving conversation around artificial intelligence—exploring how AI can be used not as a tool of fear or further disconnection, but as a force for amplification. When grounded in aligned leadership and human awareness, she believes AI has the potential to scale impact, deepen connection, and support more sustainable ways of working and living. Through her speaking, programs, and collaborative platforms, Kassandra is on a mission to redefine what sustainable success looks like—where inner alignment meets external impact, and where many hands truly make light work. Connect with Kassandra: Website: www.readysetrealign.ca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassandra-hamilton Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VancouverIslandHealing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassandra_hamilton/ Tik tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachingwithkassandra? Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@readysetrealign Book Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDKW9ZNrsvA Amazon Link to Book: https://a.co/d/2yWISSu 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 Do You Recover from Burnout When You're Successful but Empty Inside?
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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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