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. Why Focusing on Death Is Ruining Your Life (And What to Do Instead) with Judy Wong

    13H AGO

    Why Focusing on Death Is Ruining Your Life (And What to Do Instead) with Judy Wong

    What if the life you’re waiting to live… is still waiting on you? In this powerful and playful episode, Judy Wong shares how laughter, perspective, and reconnecting with your inner self can help you break free from past pain—and start living fully right now. What You’ll Hear: - Why you should ditch the bucket list and start living your life list - How laughter can transform trauma into strength and perspective - The truth about “hurt people hurt people”—and how to release the past - A simple but powerful shift: flip the coin and find the other side of your story - How smiling (yes, even when it feels fake) can change your energy—and your outcomes - Judy’s breakthrough moment of reconnecting with her inner light (this one hits deep) Resources Mentioned on this Episode - Judy Wong’s work: Raise Your Fountain of Life – https://raiseyourfountainoflife.com - Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences click here👉 [Everyday Encores] Featured Guest: Judy Wong is your compassionate guide to rediscovering you, your long forgotten passions, and the joy to start living with excitement again even if you are over 60. Her warm and loving nature creates a safe space for you to unlock new opportunities, deep fulfillment, and abundant energy, no matter where you are right now. Using her gifts as a Certified Mindvalley Life Coach, Holobody Coach, practitioner of the Silva Method, Ultra High Frequency Energy Healing Master, and Accredited Hypnotherapist, she guides you raise your fountain of life to new heights and embrace extraordinary results. Dreams don't have an expiration date! They are just waiting for you. Connect with Judy: Website: https://RaiseYourFountainOfLife.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejudywong/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lolaintoveryet/ Reset from Divine Detours Meditation Video Gift (Value $197.00 USD) Divine Detours happen but they are just Sacred Sidesteps to guide you toward something or someone exponentially better. This is more than a meditation... it is a real reset with affirmation that you can do as many times as you need. In this guided meditation, you will experience the Peace and Love you truly deserve with an affirmation to reignite. https://livingoutloudaintoveryet.thrivecart.com/reset-from-divine-detours-meditation/ 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

    49 min
  2. How to Use Laughter to Reduce Stress and Gain Emotional Balance With Joyologist Steve Wilson

    APR 2

    How to Use Laughter to Reduce Stress and Gain Emotional Balance With Joyologist Steve Wilson

    What if laughter wasn’t just something you do… but something that helps you survive and thrive? In this episode, Steve Wilson reveals how humor creates emotional balance, reduces overwhelm, and gives you the perspective you didn’t know you needed—right when life feels heaviest. What You’ll Hear: - Why laughter is a tool—not just entertainment - The powerful mindset shift: seeing the less serious side of any situation - How humor creates psychological distance from stress and overwhelm - The truth about emotions: why they’re all teachers (yes, even the messy ones) - Simple ways to build your own “humor first aid kit” - How small acts—like a smile or a “good morning”—can spark real human connection Featured Guest: Steve Wilson An award-winning international personality in the field of therapeutic humor and laughter, Steve Wilson’s work as a clinical psychologist crystallized his thinking about the relationships between humor and mental wellness. Now retired from the practice of psychotherapy, Steve continues to intertwine substance and humor in ways you never imagined. President of The World Laughter Tour, an organization that promotes health, happiness, and world peace through laughter, he innovated the popular program, “How to Create Therapeutic Laughter.” His therapeutic programs are used by thousands of people at work, in schools, hospitals, healthcare, treatment support groups, nursing homes, and more. Director of National Humor Month, he is one of America’s top-rated speakers. Steve serves on the Advisory Committee of the Human Services Department training program at Columbus State Community College, where he is the honoree of the Stephen H. Wilson Scholarship Fund. As an internationally acclaimed advocate for the benefits of laughter, he received the 2007 Golden Laughter Award from the French School of Laughter. Steve has earned the designation of Certified Speaking Professional from the National Speakers Association and is the 2010 recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor. Steve will present reflections, perspectives, and a practical framework for how laughter and humor enhance health and happiness. Steve and his wife, Pam, are the joyful grandparents of the ten smartest, funniest, most beautiful children in North America, all boys except for six. Connect with Steve: steve4joy@gmail.com steve@worldlaughtertour.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

    48 min
  3. Finding Joy in Dirt, Music, and Friendship: The Playful Life of Leslie Outier

    MAR 26

    Finding Joy in Dirt, Music, and Friendship: The Playful Life of Leslie Outier

    What if play isn’t just something we grow out of—but something we grow into? In this episode, Malcolm talks with musician and urban gardener Leslie Outier about laughter, creativity, and how music, nature, and community can help us reconnect with joy—even in life’s heavier moments. What You’ll Hear Why laughter—even when it starts out fake—still produces real physiological benefitsHow gardening can become a powerful form of play, creativity, and connectionLeslie’s unexpected journey from art school to urban farming and community food sharingThe playful and unconventional story behind her music career and joining The ClarencesWhy performing music can reveal a different side of ourselves—and that’s okayA simple mindset shift that helps during difficult times: remembering that you will feel better again Resources Mentioned on this Episode Check out The Clarences: www.theclarences.com www.facebook.com/theclarences www.youtube.com/theclarences www.instagram.com/theclarences 🎶 The Clarences https://www.theclarances.com 🎵 Leslie’s other band projects on Bandcamp Bunny Numkins and the Killblow Up ReactionLisa and the Franks 🌱 Urban farming inspiration mentioned in the episode Community food sharing and neighborhood produce programs 🎙 Previous Episodes Featuring Members of The Clarences Episode with Robert MedeirosEpisode with Erin “Queenie” Shannon Featured Guest: Leslie Outier The Clarences are a Northern Californian band that’s been around for 20 years! The band members are: Robert A. Medeiros, Erin Shannon & Leslie Outhier! Follow: www.youtube.com/theclarences www.facebook.com/theclarences www.instagram.com/theclarences 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

    49 min
  4. How Humor, Music, and Spiritual Play Help Us Lighten Up with Erin Shannon

    MAR 19

    How Humor, Music, and Spiritual Play Help Us Lighten Up with Erin Shannon

    What if healing didn’t always require seriousness? In this playful and insightful conversation, Malcolm sits down with musician, comedian, and intuitive Erin “Queenie” Shannon to explore how laughter, music, and curiosity can help us navigate life’s heavier moments. What You’ll Hear Why laughter can be a powerful emotional release—even in difficult momentsErin’s journey from theater and stand-up comedy to performing with The ClarencesThe surprising role humor plays in spirituality, intuition, and healingHow asking one simple question—“What’s good right now?”—can shift your mindsetWhy creative expression doesn’t always follow the traditional rules of comedy or musicHow playfulness helps us move through life’s challenges without getting stuck in them Resources Mentioned in this Episode 1.🎶 The Clarences (band): https://www.theclarances.com 2.🎤 Inspiration from comedian Margaret Cho 3.🎭 Stand-up inspiration from Eddie Izzard 4.🎧 Previous episode featuring Robert Medeiros of The Clarences Featured Guest: Erin Shannon The Clarences are a Northern Californian band that’s been around for 20 years! The band members are: Robert A. Medeiros, Erin Shannon & Leslie Outhier! Follow: www.youtube.com/theclarences www.facebook.com/theclarences www.instagram.com/theclarences 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
  5. Why Music, Toys, and Play Still Matter: A Conversation with Robert A. Medeiros

    MAR 12

    Why Music, Toys, and Play Still Matter: A Conversation with Robert A. Medeiros

    What if joy isn’t something you find… but something you grow? In this playful and heartfelt conversation, Malcolm sits down with musician Robert Medeiros of The Clarences to explore how music, imagination, and childhood play can help us reconnect with joy in everyday life. What You’ll Hear Why music can instantly shift your energy and transport you emotionallyHow childhood influences — from toys to Sesame Street — shape creativityRobert’s journey from discovering music at age 13 to composing songs todayThe creative process behind The Clarences’ quirky songwriting styleWhy playfulness and improv are essential ingredients in art and lifeA powerful perspective on finding joy by making the things you love bigger in your life Resources Mentioned in this Episode 🎵 Listen to The Clarences: https://www.theclarances.com 🎥 The Clarences on YouTube: https://youtube.com/theclarances 📱 Follow The Clarences: Facebook & Instagram: @theclarances Featured Guest: Robert A. Medeiros The Clarences are a Northern Californian band that’s been around for 20 years! The band members are: Robert A. Medeiros, Erin Shannon & Leslie Outhier! Follow: www.youtube.com/theclarences www.facebook.com/theclarences www.instagram.com/theclarences 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

    46 min
  6. The Rhythm That Connects Us: Music, Laughter & Play Explained

    MAR 5

    The Rhythm That Connects Us: Music, Laughter & Play Explained

    Before we had language, we had rhythm. In this energizing episode, Malcolm explores how music, laughter, and play sync our nervous systems, deepen connection, and help us show up boldly — even if we sing off-key. What You’ll Hear Why rhythm existed before language — and why that matters for connectionThe hidden science behind laughter’s tempo (yes, laughter has measurable beats!)How silence is part of the rhythm — and why shared pauses build trustThe courage to dance, sing, or lead without waiting to “get it right”Why group laughter works like improvised musicA spotlight on indie rock band The Clarences and their delightfully quirky creative rhythm 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

    29 min
  7. How to Eliminate Hidden People Risks and Build a Joy-Driven Workplace with Dr. Diane Dye

    FEB 26

    How to Eliminate Hidden People Risks and Build a Joy-Driven Workplace with Dr. Diane Dye

    This episode is a powerful wake-up call for leaders who sense something is “off” in their organizations but can’t quite name it. Dr. Diane Dye reveals how hidden people risks quietly stall innovation—and how joy, psychological safety, and human-centered leadership turn risk into opportunity. What You’ll Hear: Why all organizational risk is people risk—and why legal-first thinking keeps leaders reactiveHow leaders can replace blame and punishment with learning, mastery, and growthThe simple phrase that instantly creates psychological safety: “Help me understand”How unaddressed human issues quietly become innovation, retention, and revenue risksWhat “joy space” is—and why joyful workplaces outperform fearful onesHow leaders can build cohorts that fuel resilience, creativity, and sustainable leadership (Bonus: Office Space references included—TPS reports not required.) Resources Mentioned on This Episode People Risk Consulting – Strategic support for CEOs addressing hidden people risks Creating Critical Opportunity Workbook – A practical framework for turning problems into progress Weekly Master Class (Mondays) – Live leadership and risk conversations with Dr. Diane Dye Dissertation: Organizational Risk, Psychological Safety & Leadership (USC Library, under Barbara Diane Hanson) Episode 10 Website: PeopleRiskConsulting.com | DrDianeDye.com Gentle Mic-Drop Moment 🎤 When leaders create joy instead of fear, people stop covering mistakes… and start creating solutions. Turns out, laughter isn’t a distraction—it’s a risk-management strategy. Featured Guest: Dr. Diane Dye 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

    28 min
  8. How Playful Leadership Builds Stronger Teams, Retention, and Real Connection with Jessper Maquindang

    FEB 19

    How Playful Leadership Builds Stronger Teams, Retention, and Real Connection with Jessper Maquindang

    This episode is a refreshing reminder that leadership doesn’t have to be rigid to be effective. Jesper Maquindang shares how joy, play, and human connection transform workplace culture, energize teams, and help leaders move beyond command-and-control into authentic influence Episode 9. What You’ll Hear: Why joy and laughter are not “nice-to-haves,” but leadership essentialsHow play creates connection, trust, and long-term employee engagementThe shift from command-and-control leadership to human-centered leadershipWhy leaders who ignore joy risk burnout, disengagement, and silent quittingHow understanding different work styles strengthens communication and teamworkA powerful reframing of work: Are your 80,000–90,000 working hours filled with stress… or joy? Episode 9 Resources Mentioned on This Episode - Leadership Conversations with Jesper – Jesper’s LinkedIn Live podcast on leadership, growth, and development Episode 9 - Phamaly Consulting – Leadership development, team building, and workplace culture support Episode 9 - Leadership & Work-Style Assessments – Including DiSC and other personality-based tools for improving communication Episode 9 - Related Episode: Malcolm on Leadership Conversations with Jesper (play, laughter, and applied improv in leadership) Episode 9 Closing Thought (because this episode deserves one): Leadership isn’t about tightening the reins—it’s about lightening the room. When leaders make space for joy, people don’t just work harder… they care more. Featured Guest: Jessper Maquindang Jessper Maquindang is a Speaker and Leadership Development Consultant who helps leaders build high-performing teams. As a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), he partners with business owners to strengthen leadership and culture so the business can grow without the founder feeling trapped in burnout and overwhelm. Through his frameworks, assessments, and leadership systems, Jessper turns overwhelmed teams into empowered leaders, unlocking clarity, performance, and sustainable growth. At the heart of his approach is a simple belief: people perform best when they feel connected. Jessper brings a grounded sense of joy and curiosity into deep conversations about leadership, creating space for insight and meaningful change. Connect with Jessper: Website: https://www.famileadconsulting.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmaquindang Unlock Your Time & Boost Team Performance with the Delegation & Productivity Checklist A practical tool for team leaders to pinpoint where delegation is breaking down, reduce bottlenecks, and reclaim time. Learn how to identify low-value tasks, eliminate decision bottlenecks, and assess your delegation effectiveness so your team can take ownership while you focus more on high-impact leadership. Get the free checklist: https://famileadmanagement.com/delegationchecklist-4425 Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant. Follow Malcolm: Website: malcolmgrissom.com Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/ We are proud to have The Lighten Up Project on the High Vibe Podcast Network . Grab your free gift from Malcolm in our Our High Vibe Gift Vault. Love this show, check out the other shows on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Share the Love ✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you. 🔊 Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Amazon Music 🎧 High Vibe Podcast Network

    26 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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