The Lighten Up Project

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

  1. How to Help a Quiet Kid Build Confidence

    1d ago

    How to Help a Quiet Kid Build Confidence

    Speaker, author, and TEDx alum Jackie Bailey believes no child should ever feel they have nothing worth saying. In this tender Mental Health Month conversation, she shares how breaking a lifelong silence became her own path to healing — and how that same power of voice now helps quiet, overwhelmed young people discover they belong and have something the world needs to hear. What You'll Hear Why so many "quiet" kids aren't shy at all — they simply aren't sure what they have to contribute, and how Jackie helps them find their aha momentThe Dale Carnegie principle Jackie shares with every lonely student: stop waiting for people to be interested in you, and get interested in themA simple hand-tracing laughter exercise Jackie uses to help kids release pressure and reset in the momentHow writing things down — pen on paper — can be the first, gentlest step toward healing before you ever say a word out loudJackie's reframe on trauma (with a nod to Gabor Maté): it's not only what happened to you, but how it changed the way you see yourselfWhat "belonging" actually feels like in the body, and why it's a basic human need we're wired forThe two meanings of "lighten up" — releasing what weighs you down, and turning toward the light of someone who inspires you Resources Mentioned on this Episode - The Speak Feed Lead project — Jackie's nonprofit helping young people find their voice and a stage to use it on - Book: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie — the classic Jackie returns to again and again with her students - In the Groove with Todd and Jackie — the rebranded podcast Jackie co-hosts with her husband Todd Cuddeback - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization Featured Guest: Jackie Bailey Jackie Bailey is The International Conversation Coach. She inspires clients to speak with significance, triumph over trauma, and champion their challenges. Jackie is: • Founder and executive director of The Speak Feed Lead Project • Cohost of In the Groove with Todd and Jackie podcast • Author/contributor of 7 books on topics ranging from leadership, healing, communication, and parenting. • A TEDx speaker, has been featured on SPEAK in New York, and a 2015 semi-finalist in The World Championship of Public Speaking putting her in the top 98 of 33,000 competitors. • An international award-winning team-builder, educator, leader, and coach. Connect with Jackie: Website: https://jackiebailey360.com/ Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackie.bailey2 The Speak Feed Lead Project Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpeakFeedLead Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakfeedlead/?hl=en X: https://x.com/SELFishBowl LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-bailey-4532287/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jackiespeakfeedle? Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UK77I3lt7K2X64e6UXX0g In the Groove with Todd and Jackie podcast: https://www.toddandjackie.com/ Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jackie-Bailey/author/B0BSRGSM6K?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c7dab321-0c94-44cc-9dbd-c0d21b2240c6 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

    35 min
  2. How to Get Your Sense of Humor Back

    3d ago

    How to Get Your Sense of Humor Back

    In this Mental Health Month conversation, mindset and self-talk strategist Ly Smith shares the tender, funny, deeply human story of how a single word — laugh — became the anchor that lifted her out of a years-long depression and, later, helped her fall back in love with her husband. It's an invitation to remember that joy you've misplaced is never truly gone; it's just waiting to be found again. What You'll Hear The moment on a Hawaiian beach when Ly realized she was thinking about paradise but feeling nothing — and the line she drew in the sand that changed everythingWhy she chose "laugh" as her word for the year, and the simple, couch-bound first steps (yes, Friends reruns counted) that started her climb out of depressionThe "pause to play" practice she uses to reset her brain and unstick her creativityHow a 10-day cruise and a quiet daily commitment to make her husband laugh rebuilt a marriage she thought was overThe acceptance-letter story that taught her the power of laughing at herself instead of shaming herselfHer advice for anyone who feels they've lost their sense of humor: if you had it once, it's still in there — here's how to dig for itA look at her G3 Mastermind and the three Gs she believes everyone carries: genius, gifts, and greatness Resources Mentioned on this Episode - G3 Mastermind — Ly's online community for high-achieving women rewriting their self-talk, hosted on the Skool platform - Book: The Power of Fun — the research on play that helped reframe how Ly thinks about being childlike (not childish) - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization Featured Guest: Ly Smith Ly Smith is an inspirational speaker, multi-international best-selling author and founder of UpCycle Coaching LLC. In her G3 mastermind, she helps high-achieving women entrepreneurs move from REACTOR to CREATOR in life by rewriting their self talk. With over three decades of personal growth and positive psychology research, along with certifications in life coaching and NLP, Ly uses her proven C.A.N.D.Y. Method™ framework to help women entrepreneurs break through the quiet tension between external success and internal hesitation so that they can minimize the inner critic, amplify confidence and step into bold leadership. In addition to her passion for speaking and high-performance, Ly loves singleorigin coffee, hikes and snowshoeing. Connect with Ly: Website: https://talks.co/ly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/g3mastermind Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/g3mastermind Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/g3mastermind YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@g3mastermind TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@g3mastermind 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

    1h 6m
  3. What's the Real Reason We Struggle in Relationships and at Work?

    Jun 19

    What's the Real Reason We Struggle in Relationships and at Work?

    What if you could understand any person you meet — your spouse, your boss, even that charming stranger at the bar — better than they understand themselves? Human development engineer Jim Marshall spent over 50,000 hours and four decades figuring out exactly that. The result is Septemics: a system of 35 measurable scales that takes the guesswork (and a whole lot of heartache) out of human relationships. Less drama, more laughter and joy. What You'll Hear Why understanding people — not technology — is the biggest unsolved problem of modern life, and what it's quietly costing all of usHow Jim turned 40 years of one-on-one client work into 35 "scales" of human behavior, discovered the same way a scientist stumbles onto natural lawThe gardener-vs.-the-five-year-old analogy that explains why most of us completely misread the people around usThe "gorgeous blonde" story — how spotting where someone lands on a scale saved Jim time, money, and a mountain of aggravation (all with zero arguments)Why laughter and joy are effects, not causes — and what actually produces them in your relationshipsThe "gradient problem" that's bedeviled humanity for 6,000 years, and why real growth always happens one level at a timeJim's parting truth: healing doesn't have to be heavy, because it comes from within you Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Septemics website — reviews, press, sample chapters, and a free 15-minute prerecorded audio, Introduction to Septemics - Book: Septemics: Hierarchy of Human Phenomena by Jim Marshall — available in hardcover, paperback, and e-book - Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization Featured Guest: Jim Marshall Jim Marshall is a polymathic intellectual who has has devoted over 50,000 hours to the study and practice of multiple dimensions of human development. He received a classical education at a Jesuit Military School, was accepted into engineering school while still a junior in prep school, and attended college on academic scholarship. He graduated college with a Bachelor of Science cum laude. While still an undergraduate, he began the study of “alternative” Arts and Sciences which today would be described as Transformational and Holistic. Eventually, he became a professional practitioner and, after 28 years of formal education, had a long career as a Human Development Engineer. He has successfully worked with hundreds of clients, and is the inventor of Septemics and several consciousness-expanding systems. His areas of expertise include psychology, philosophy, theology, parapsychology, science, engineering, mathematics, law, literature, history, music, organization, metaphysics, military science, political science, physical culture, human potential and education. Connect with Jim: LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jim-marshall-b10982205 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

    54 min
  4. How To Get Over Your Fear of Public Speaking?

    Jun 17

    How To Get Over Your Fear of Public Speaking?

    What would you do if fear stopped being in charge? In this inspiring and laughter-filled conversation, Christy Fitzpatrick shares how one courageous moment transformed her life, helping her overcome self-doubt, find her voice, and become a sought-after communication and public speaking coach. If you've ever struggled with confidence, imposter syndrome, or speaking up when it matters most, this episode will remind you that courage comes before confidence. What You'll Hear Why confidence is often mistaken for courage—and why courage comes firstChristy's powerful "Act As If" strategy for overcoming fear and self-doubtHow a single public speaking moment changed the trajectory of her lifeThe surprising role laughter plays in connection, communication, and leadershipPractical techniques for becoming more confident in presentations, meetings, and everyday conversationsHow to challenge the inner voice that says you're not good enoughWhy taking the first step matters more than seeing the entire staircase ahead Resources Mentioned on This Episode - Cann Coaching Communication Training - Website: cann-co.com - Email: christy@cannco.com - Toastmasters International - Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Take the First Step" philosophy - Related Lighten Up Project episodes on confidence, resilience, and personal growth Memorable Quote "Act as if you are the person you desire to be. The confidence will arrive." One Big Takeaway You don't need confidence before you begin. You need the courage to take the first step. Confidence often shows up later and says, "Thanks for getting us started." Featured Guest: Christy FitzPatrick Christy FitzPatrick is the founder of CANN Co., a communication coach and a professional speaker who believes everyone has a message worth sharing—most people just need a little help getting it out. Known for her encouraging style and real‑world coaching, Christy helps clients find their voice, own their story, and communicate with confidence. She brings energy, authenticity, and a genuine passion for helping people shine when it matters most. 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

    50 min
  5. How to Stop Rambling and Start Communicating Clearly

    Jun 12

    How to Stop Rambling and Start Communicating Clearly

    Having something important to say is only half the battle. In this engaging and practical conversation, public speaking expert Donna Riccardo shares how to communicate with clarity, confidence, and authenticity so your message doesn't just get heard—it gets remembered. What You'll Hear: Why confidence in speaking is an inside job, not a performance skillThe biggest mistake speakers make when trying to be memorableHow to stop rambling and finally get to the pointWhy preparation and practice matter more than talentA simple NLP technique to quiet your inner critic and communicate more effectivelyHow humor, authenticity, and play can transform your message and your audience's experienceWhy listening may be the most underrated communication skill of all Resources Mentioned on This Episode - Public Speaking for Entrepreneurs by Donna Riccardo - Red Stiletto Get to the Point - Donna's Free Gift: Top 10 Public Speaking Tips to Keep Your Audience Hanging on Every Word - Learn more about The Lighten Up Project and the World Laughter Organization Featured Guest: Donna Riccardo Donna Riccardo is the Founder/CEO of Red Stiletto – Get to the point! It is a public speaking training/coaching company. Donna has 30+ years of speaking and training experience. Drawing on her experience of 20 years in a global personal development company, she brings the art of training, coaching and supporting people to express themselves with clarity and confidence – while attracting clients. She is a 14-year participant in Toastmasters and has earned the highest award of Distinguished Toastmaster. Donna is a trained neurolinguistic programming practitioner (NLP). She is also an active member of the National Speakers Association. Donna is the best-selling author of Public Speaking for Entrepreneurs: How to show up, speak up and get what you want for your business and your life! Connect with Donna: Website: donnariccardo.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnariccardo/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnariccardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donna.riccardo.96 Free Gift: Not your ordinary, predictable top 10 speaking tips. These 10 powerful strategies help you sound more polished immediately, connect more naturally, and keep your audience hanging on instead of checking out: https://publicspeakingforentrepreneurs.com/freegift-top10tips Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    36 min
  6. Are You Accidentally Becoming Your Child's Inner Critic?

    Jun 10

    Are You Accidentally Becoming Your Child's Inner Critic?

    You are the loudest voice in your child’s world—the question is, what are you saying? In this powerful conversation, best-selling author and parent sidekick Jodi Hill reveals how the words you speak every day are quietly writing your child’s identity, and exactly how to use that superpower on purpose. What You’ll Hear Why a parent’s voice is the single most powerful force shaping a child’s identity—and how to reclaim that role before culture, peers, or social media does it for youThe difference between an inner critic and an inner bully (and why one is never helpful)The water crystal experiment that will change how you think about every word you speakCommon phrases parents say without realizing they’re writing a limiting identity over their child (“You’re such a picky eater” is just the beginning)How to “call your kids up to greatness”—one small, specific moment at a timeMalcolm’s raw personal story: how his father’s words delayed his true mission by 30+ yearsWhat to do if you’ve been speaking negatively for years and want to change—without feeling fakeOne powerful phrase you can start using today: “You can do hard things” Resources Mentioned - FREE Gift — First Superpower Strategy (audiobook excerpt + PDF) + Top Confidence Boosters & Busters: itsjodihill.com - Book: The Parent’s Secret Superpower by Jodi Hill — seven simple strategies to raise confident and capable kids: https://amzn.to/4bhpNNK - Masaru Emoto’s water crystal experiments — referenced for the science behind how words affect the body - Connect with Jodi on Instagram: @jodihillparenting Quotable Moment: “A parent’s voice becomes a child’s identity.” — Jodi Hill Featured Guest: Jody Hill Jody Hill helps parents become the loudest and most positive voice in their child’s life by harnessing the power of their everyday words. She is the author of the Amazon bestselling book The Parent’s Secret Superpower, which teaches parents how everyday language shapes identity, builds confidence, and raises resilient, capable kids. Connect with Jody: Website: www.itsjodyhill.com Instagram: instagram.com/jodyhillparenting 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

    56 min
  7. Stop Hiding, Start Shining: How to Step Out of the Shadows & Build a Business That’s Profitable, Playful & Bold with Kimberly Crowe

    Jun 3

    Stop Hiding, Start Shining: How to Step Out of the Shadows & Build a Business That’s Profitable, Playful & Bold with Kimberly Crowe

    What if hiding is the most exhausting thing you’re doing right now—and the most expensive? In this soul-stirring conversation, international speaker and visibility coach Kimberly Crowe reveals why dimming your light is terrible branding, how to recommit to yourself every single day, and the small morning ritual that will change how you show up in the world—starting tomorrow. What You’ll Hear Why “hiding” is not only exhausting—it’s a disservice to the world (and terrible branding)Kimberly’s raw turning point: the late-night desk moment that changed everything after 17 years in corporateThe difference between commitment driven by fear vs. commitment driven by purpose—and how to tell which one is running your lifeWhy recommitment (not just commitment) is the real secret to showing up consistentlyAbraham Hicks’ emotional scale tool: how to move from hopeless to hopeful without toxic positivityThe 3-things-before-your-feet-hit-the-floor morning practice that builds unshakeable self-trustHow Kimberly launched a business with her 15-year-old son—and rediscovered what joy in work actually feels likeWhy visibility isn’t optional if you have a message the world needs to hear Resources Mentioned - Speakers Playhouse (free, live on Zoom every Thursday 10:30 AM–12:00 PM PT | 1:30–3:00 PM ET) - Podpalooza — the one-day podcasting extravaganza that turns visibility into a contact sport - Entrepreneurs Rocket Fuel — Kimberly’s signature program for speakers and entrepreneurs - Abraham Hicks / Esther Hicks — the emotional scale teachings referenced in this episode - Brené Brown’s TEDx Talk — mentioned as Kimberly’s favorite TEDx of all time Quotable Moment “If you’re not being seen, you’re being overlooked. If you’re not being heard, your message isn’t getting out there.” — Kimberly Crowe Featured Guest: Kimberly Crowe Kimberly Crowe is an international inspirational public speaker and entrepreneur who has spoken on over 5,000 stages, including TEDx Las Vegas. She is the creator of Entrepreneurs Rocket Fuel and the co-host of Speakers Playhouse, where every week she literally hands people the mic and helps them get booked. She’s also the producer of Podapalooza, the one-day podcasting extravaganza that matches guests and podcasters for instant visibility. Known for her motto, “If it’s not fun, it’s not worth doing,” Kimberly has built a thriving business that blends savvy visibility strategy with playfulness and ease. Her mission is simple: help speakers, coaches, and entrepreneurs step out of hiding, get on more stages, and build wildly visible, profitable, and fun-first businesses. Connect with Kimberly Crowe Website & Speakers Playhouse: https://speakersplayhouse.com/ Entrepreneurs Rocket Fuel: https://entrepreneursrocketfuel.com/ Free Gift: From Guest to Goldmine: The 9-Step Checklist to Turn Podcast Interviews Into New Leads and Clients - https://checkingout.thrivecart.com/from-guest-to-goldmine/ 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

    30 min
  8. Why Small Wins Matter More Than You Think

    May 28

    Why Small Wins Matter More Than You Think

    What do you do when life completely changes the rules on you? In this powerful and deeply human episode, J.D. Leske shares how he rebuilt his life through resilience, laughter, community, and purpose after incarceration, major health battles, loss, and overwhelming setbacks. What You’ll Hear: Why healing isn’t about ignoring pain—it’s about learning how to move through itHow laughter and humor became survival tools during J.D.’s darkest momentsThe mindset shift that helped him go from “Why me?” to “Game on.”Why even the smallest steps forward still count as victoriesThe power of community, play, and connection in emotional healingJ.D.’s inspiring journey from prison and heart failure to purpose-driven leadership Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Connect with J.D. Leske on Facebook - Free 2026 Goal Planner + Game On Health REBOUND Community resources Email: gameonhrc@gmail.com - Learn more about GPS to Life Success and J.D.’s resilience coaching work - Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences Feature Guest: J.D. Leisky J.D. Leisky is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and founder of the Game On Health Rebound Community. After overcoming incarceration, serious health challenges, and multiple life setbacks, he now helps people rebuild their lives with purpose, resilience, and momentum. Known for his raw honesty, humor, and compassion, J.D. creates spaces where people feel seen, encouraged, and reminded that even small steps forward still matter. Connect with J.D: Website: https://gps2ls.com/game-on-sign-up Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the *High Vibe Podcast Network .* Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    41 min

About

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

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