The Spark Konnect

Kassy LaBorie
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Welcome to The Spark Konnect Podcast, hosted by Kassy LaBorie — The Trainer’s Trainer and Original Virtual Training Hero. This is the place where we explore the many sparks that ignite powerful facilitation — creativity, performance, leadership, play, and beyond. Each series dives into a new lens on facilitation, revealing the unique ways people connect, inspire, and lead. From artistry to athletics (and everything in between), we uncover how different passions and disciplines fuel unforgettable learning experiences. Because facilitation isn’t just a profession — it’s a human art.

  1. 21H AGO

    Ep. 023 | Embracing Your Voice w/ Tina BE

    In today’s conversation Kassy LaBorie interviews Tina BE, an intuitive communication expert who shares her journey of embracing creativity and the power of presence in communication. Tina BE discusses the importance of listening, grounding oneself, and the role of curiosity in effective communication. She also explains her unique approach of using freestyle rap to engage audiences and navigate criticism. Together, Kassy and Tina BE highlight the significance of self-awareness, personal expression, and the transformative power of music in connecting with others. Tina BE’s links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinabakehouse/ Website: www.tinabe.com Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tina B and Her Artistry 03:16 The Power of Names and Identity 05:58 Listening with the Body 08:40 Grounding and Presence in Communication 11:30 The Role of Creativity in Leadership 14:28 Improv and Freestyle Rap as Communication Tools 17:14 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity 19:39 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Judgment 22:21 The Power of Music and Nostalgia 26:25 Creative Expression and Audience Reception 30:07 Navigating Discomfort in Creative Spaces 33:51 Improvisation and Adaptability in Communication 39:05 Grounding Techniques for Presenters 41:09 Outro Takeaways Tina BE emphasizes the importance of being fully present when listening to others. Setting intentions before engaging in communication can enhance the experience. Mistakes in creative expression can lead to golden opportunities for growth. Curiosity allows for deeper connections and more engaging conversations. Freestyle rap can be a powerful tool for audience engagement and connection. It's essential to embrace one's unique voice and creative expression. Criticism often reflects the critic's own insecurities rather than the quality of the work. Grounding techniques can help manage anxiety and enhance communication effectiveness. The breath is a powerful tool for calming the nervous system before speaking. The journey of self-discovery often leads to a more authentic expression of oneself. intuitive communication, creative expression, listening skills, audience engagement, freestyle rap, personal growth, self-awareness, music, improvisation, leadership

    42 min

  2. MAR 25

    Ep. 022 | Humming Along w/ Jordon Taylor

    In this engaging conversation, Kassy LaBorie interviews Jordan Taylor, a corporate trainer and musician, exploring the intersection of music, performance, and effective training techniques. They discuss the importance of audience engagement, the role of creativity in training, and how personal experiences can enhance the learning environment. Jordan shares insights from his time at GoDaddy, the development of a train-the-trainer program, and the use of music as inspiration for training activities. The conversation emphasizes the need for trainers to connect with their audience and adapt their delivery to create impactful learning experiences. Jordon’s Links: Website: https://corporatetrainingcompanion.com/about-jordon-taylor-corporate-training-expert/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/corporatetrainingcompanion TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@corptrainingcompanion LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordontaylor/ Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jordan Taylor and His Journey 03:16 The Transition from Music to Corporate Training 06:04 The Role of Performance in Training 08:42 The Importance of Group Dynamics in Training 11:30 GoDaddy's Effective Training Approach 14:08 Building a Train the Trainer Program 16:42 The Magic of Engagement in Training 19:30 Using Music as Inspiration for Training 22:13 Creative Techniques in Training Delivery 24:39 The Power of Covering Songs in Training 27:25 Conclusion and Resources for Trainers Takeaways Jordon Taylor is the owner of Corporate Training Companion. Jordon has a background in music, playing guitar and trombone. He emphasizes the importance of performance skills in training. Jordon’s experience with GoDaddy's onboarding process was well-structured and engaging. Jordan built a train-the-trainer program for GoDaddy's expansion. He uses creative techniques to engage trainees, like magic tricks.. Music serves as a source of inspiration for training content. Trainers should focus on audience feelings and engagement. Jordon offers courses for new trainers on corporate training and interview preparation. corporate training, music, performance, engagement, training techniques, GoDaddy, train the trainer, audience connection, creativity, instructional design

    34 min

  3. MAR 18

    Ep. 021 | Everbody's a Singer w/ Vanessa Hoffman

    In this exciting conversation, Kassy LaBorie and Vanessa Hoffman explore the intersection of vocal performance and professional development. Vanessa shares her journey as a singer and trainer, discussing how her musical background informs her approach to training and engagement. They delve into the challenges of vocal performance, the importance of breath control, and the need for vocal care among trainers. The conversation highlights the significance of authenticity in performance and the role of facial expressions in effective communication. Vanessa offers valuable insights and tips for trainers to enhance their delivery and connect with their audience. Vanessa’s Links: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-hoffman-b401b023 Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vanessa's Artistry 02:47 The Intersection of Music and Professional Development 05:14 The Challenges of Vocal Performance 08:07 The Art of Engagement in Training 10:51 Performance Anxiety and Authenticity 13:37 Vocal Care for Trainers 16:33 Breath Control and Speaking 19:22 The Importance of Facial Expressions 21:53 Final Thoughts and Connection Takeaways Everybody's a singer. Singing is a big part of Vanessa's life. The challenges of vocal performance are significant. Engagement in training is crucial for effective learning. Performance anxiety can hinder authentic communication. Vocal care is essential for trainers and speakers. Breath control is vital for effective speaking. Facial expressions enhance communication and engagement. Going big in performance can help find the right delivery. Authenticity in performance resonates with audiences. Vanessa Hoffman, vocal performance, professional development, training, engagement, public speaking, vocal care, breath control, authenticity, music

    30 min

  4. MAR 11

    Ep. 020 | The Power of Play w/ Kirsten Anderson

    In this brand new episode, Kassy LaBorie and Kirsten Anderson explore the transformative power of play in adult life, particularly in the workplace. Kirsten shares her journey from the toy industry to becoming a playologist, emphasizing the importance of play for creativity, team building, and psychological safety. They discuss practical techniques for integrating play into professional settings, the significance of creating a playful environment, and how play can enhance communication and collaboration. Kirsten also provides actionable activities for facilitators to foster engagement and connection among participants. Kirsten’s Links: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/KirstenPlaying Website: https://integrateplay.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenplaying/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KirstenPlaying Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirstenplaying/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kirstenplaying Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6bxmODDjJWtik8oFZ5sOhU?si=b98caf6c3cf3429f eSpeakers:  https://www.espeakers.com/marketplace/profile/46499/kirsten-anderson Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Play and Art 02:58 The Importance of Play in Adult Life 05:52 Play as a Tool for Team Building and Resilience 08:35 Pillars of a Playful Mindset 11:34 Transformative Moments in Play Facilitation 14:13 Applying Play in Personal and Professional Life 16:55 Exploring Creativity and Playfulness in Work 19:15 The Power of Play in Learning 21:08 Overcoming Resistance in Corporate Settings 23:02 Creating Psychological Safety through Play 25:31 The Art of Noticing and Naming 28:29 Engaging Introductions: Who's Who Activity 32:41 Integrating Play into Everyday Work Takeaways Emphasizes the need for adults to engage in play. Play should not be limited to evenings and weekends; it can be integrated into daily life. Creativity is closely linked to play; without play, creativity suffers. Facilitators should create psychological safety to encourage openness. Physical actions can enhance memory and engagement during activities. Naming what is happening in the room can enhance group dynamics. Play can help teams build resilience and adaptability. Using playful methods can increase creative solutions by over 15%. Facilitators should invite participation rather than force it.  play, creativity, team building, adult play, psychological safety, facilitation, playfulness, workplace culture, resilience, innovation

    39 min

  5. MAR 4

    Ep. 019 | A Sudden Burst of Gravity w/ Russ Powell

    In this engaging conversation, Kassy LaBorie interviews Russ Powell, a multifaceted artist and leadership trainer. They explore the connections between juggling, music, and effective leadership, discussing how artistic expression can enhance facilitation and training. Russ shares his journey from street performing in New Orleans to becoming an executive coach, emphasizing the importance of practice, improvisation, and managing nerves in both performance and leadership roles. The discussion also touches on networking strategies and the value of allowing participants to take charge in learning environments. Here are a few links and articles related to and supportive of our conversation:  How to Play Thirty-Five — A terrific game for helping teams brainstorm and prioritize ideas. Leadership and the Middle Path — My foundational leadership program used by 150+ startups and Fortune 100 teams.  Good Performer vs. Bad System — Blog post on why systems matter more than training alone.  Six Rules of Training Every Manager Should Know — Blog post on practical ways to reinforce training efforts.  A Juggler’s Guide to ISD — A fun talk I gave a few years back on the intersection of juggling and instructional design. Includes more on Thiagi’s “let the inmates run the asylum” principle, and a little juggling.  Russ’s Links: Website: https://www.russpowell.com/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russpowell/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russpowellconsulting BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/fruvous2.bsky.social Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Russ Powell 05:39 ISD vs. ID 10:14 Exploring the World of Juggling 15:26 Juggling as a Learning Tool 18:20 Applying Music & Juggling to Facilitation 19:32 Practice & Rehearsal 24:48 Managing Nerves 28:31 Russ Teaches Us A New Skill 33:50 How Improv Helps Facilitation 36:17 Drop Lines Takeaways Juggling serves as a metaphor for managing multiple responsibilities. Artistic backgrounds can enhance leadership training. Street performing teaches valuable lessons in audience engagement. Music can create a welcoming atmosphere in workshops. Nervousness is a natural part of performing and can be channeled positively. Improv skills are beneficial for facilitators and leaders. Participants should be empowered to contribute in workshops. Drop lines can help recover from mistakes in performances. Practice and rehearsal are crucial for success in any performance. juggling, leadership, street performing, instructional design, music, improv, training, coaching, executive leadership

    41 min

  6. FEB 25

    Ep. 018 | Bridging the Creative and Corporate w/ Amy Chapman

    In this episode, Amy Chapman, a professional in talent development, shares her journey from theater to corporate training. She emphasizes the importance of creativity in learning and how the arts can transform thinking and problem-solving. Amy discusses her innovative approaches to training, the significance of emotional intelligence, and the need for engaging learning experiences. She also provides practical tips for boosting confidence and explores the concept of pantomime as a form of creative expression. Amy’s Links: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amychapman-cptd  Website: amychapman.org  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyinanticipation/  Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HqGI3pBOAWbkwUTe6AwBL?si=ca36264b9de14011  Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Amy Chapman and Her Journey 05:29 Creative Approaches to Corporate Training 08:59 Engaging Learning Experiences: Beyond Traditional Methods 13:42 The Impact of Arts on Thinking and Problem Solving 18:53 Creative Solutions in Learning and Development 24:28 Exploring Pantomime and Creative Expression 27:27 Leveraging Technology for Creative Learning Takeaways Training should be engaging and enjoyable for participants. Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in effective learning. The arts can significantly influence problem-solving and thinking processes. Building relationships in learning and development is essential for success. Pantomime is a valuable tool for creative expression and storytelling. Innovative training strategies can lead to improved business outcomes. Technology can enhance creativity and problem-solving in training.  corporate training, creative learning, emotional intelligence, pantomime, arts in education, innovative training, SOPs, problem solving, confidence building

    33 min

  7. FEB 18

    Ep. 017 | The Rhythm of Learning w/ Gordon Lam

    In this episode, Kassy LaBorie and guest Gordon Lam explore the intersection of music and facilitation, emphasizing the importance of learning through experience, the transition to virtual training, and the role of authenticity in engaging audiences. They discuss how preparation and the ability to embrace mistakes can enhance the training experience, as well as the nuances of using humor in a corporate setting. The conversation highlights the value of creativity and adaptability in delivering effective training sessions. Gordon’s Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonlam/   Website: www.onthelam.com  Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/  Chapters: 00:00 The Art of Learning Jazz and Blues 15:26 Transitioning to Virtual Training 18:23 The Importance of Preparation 20:19 Embracing Mistakes in Performance 23:49 Authenticity in Facilitation 26:40 Understanding Audience Dynamics 29:09 Balancing Creativity and Professionalism Takeaways: The best way to learn is by doing and teaching. Preparation is key to managing nerves during presentations. Mistakes in performance often go unnoticed by the audience. Authenticity helps in connecting with the audience. Humor should be used carefully in corporate training. Learning should be internalized, not just memorized. Adapting to the audience's needs is crucial for engagement. Creativity can enhance the training experience. jazz, blues, virtual training, facilitation, authenticity, mistakes, humor, creativity, corporate training, audience engagement

    35 min

  8. FEB 14

    Pop-Up Ep. 016 | Practicing For Life w/ Alex Dumas

    In this special pop up Sports & Facilitation episode, Kassy LaBorie and guest, Alex Dumas explore how athletic experiences shape personal growth, confidence, and public speaking skills. Alex shares his journey from feeling insecure to finding confidence through football, emphasizing the importance of practice and preparation. They delve into the mindset required for effective performance and introduce the WIN framework, which focuses on self-worth, intentions, and networking.  Mentioned In This Episode: Warm Up Songs: I Want It All by The Arctic Monkeys & Dearest Alfred by Khruangbin Book about Alex's ancestral history: The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal, and the Real Count of Monte Cristo by Tom Reiss Alex’s Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexdumas  Website: speakeralexdumas.com  Kassy’s Links: Website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Alex Dumas 08:43 How Sports Influence Facilitation 14:01 The Freedom That Sports Unleash 17:15 Connecting with the Audience 19:49 Embracing Athleticism and Personal Growth 22:37 The Importance of Preparation  25:23 The WIN Framework: Worth, Intentions, and Network 31:17 Practical Tips for Speakers and Trainers 33:51 This History of the Dumas Name Takeaways: Sports can be a significant confidence booster. Preparation and practice are essential for success. Mindset plays a crucial role in performance. Public speaking fears can be overcome with practice. Athletes often rehearse scenarios to prepare for performance. Embracing vulnerability can help you connect with your audience. sports, facilitation, personal growth, public speaking, preparation, mindset, WIN framework, performance, confidence, athletes

    36 min
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About

Welcome to The Spark Konnect Podcast, hosted by Kassy LaBorie — The Trainer’s Trainer and Original Virtual Training Hero. This is the place where we explore the many sparks that ignite powerful facilitation — creativity, performance, leadership, play, and beyond. Each series dives into a new lens on facilitation, revealing the unique ways people connect, inspire, and lead. From artistry to athletics (and everything in between), we uncover how different passions and disciplines fuel unforgettable learning experiences. Because facilitation isn’t just a profession — it’s a human art.

Information

  • Creator
    Kassy LaBorie
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kassy LaBorie
  • Show Website
    The Spark Konnect

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