The Lighten Up Project

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/

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Wendy Liebman on 40 Years of Stand-Up, Timing, and Making People Laugh

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if laughter could literally change your life? In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, comedy legend Wendy Liebman shares how humor, timing, and vulnerability can help you heal, connect, and step fully into who you’re meant to be.

What You’ll Hear:

Why laughter isn’t just entertainment—it’s healing for the mind and body
The truth about comedy: how timing, silence, and space create connection
Wendy’s journey from depression to discovering her calling through stand-up
How humor builds community, belonging, and shared emotional release
The surprising science of laughter (yes, there’s a word for it: gelotology)
Why finding your funny is really about finding yourself

Resources Mentioned on this Episode

Wendy Liebman’s website (shows, content, and free downloadable book):https://www.wendyliebman.com
Wendy’s interactive comedy exercises (Facebook community + punchline prompts)
Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences (link)

Featured Guest: Wendy Liebman

Wendy Liebman took a class called “How to Be a Stand-Up Comedian” at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education in 1985. She has since appeared on The Tonight Show, Late Show, and Late Night with Carson, Letterman, Leno, Fallon, Kimmel, Ferguson, and Rosie, and won the American Comedy Award for Best Female Comedian. She has recorded specials for HBO, Comedy Central, and Showtime, was a semifinalist on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, and lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two rescued Jindo dogs, who are as trainable as a carrot. Her special Wendy Liebman: Taller on TV is available on Amazon.

Connect with Wendy:

Website: www.wendyliebman.com

You can download a copy of her book SWEAR ON LILY. There's a link on her website!

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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- Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences

Can Laughter Really Help You Heal? A Comedian’s Perspective with Paul Brumbaugh

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

When life feels heavy, humor isn’t a luxury—it’s survival. In this powerful and honest conversation, Paul Brumbaugh shares how laughter, vulnerability, and connection can help you navigate mental health challenges and rediscover light even in your darkest moments.

What You’ll Hear:

- How humor can be a lifeline during depression, anxiety, and stress

- Why laughing at yourself is one of the most powerful forms of healing

- The truth about dark moments: feel it… but don’t live there

- How to push past isolation and reconnect with people (even when it’s hard)

- The surprising mindset shift: using humor as a tool for resilience, not avoidance

- Paul’s raw journey from using comedy as defense… to using it as healing

Resources Mentioned on this Episode:

- Edge Studios Online (Podcasting + Production Support)

Email: edgestudiosonline@gmail.com

Phone: 650-503-3435

- Explore tools for humor, connection, and emotional resilience

Featured Guest: Paul Brumbaugh

Paul Brumbaugh is a versatile entertainer known for his stand-up comedy, variety podcast hosting, and voice-over work. He has been a trusted "House Comedian" for The Improv Comedy Clubs and continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences nationwide. His work as an educator, through Comedy Composition Workshops, has empowered aspiring comedians and fostered a supportive community. Paul's unique brand of humor and relatable storytelling have made him a sought-after performer and a respected figure within the comedy community.

Connect with Paul:

Website: https://paulbrumbaugh.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paul.brumbaugh

https://www.facebook.com/EdgeStudiosOnline

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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Leadership Under Fire: Decision-Making, Resilience, and the Power of Humor with Neil Jurd

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

When the pressure is real and the stakes are high, leadership gets exposed. In this episode, Neil Jerd shares hard-earned lessons from the military and beyond on how to stay calm, build trust, and lead with clarity—even when everything around you feels uncertain.

What You’ll Hear:

- The biggest myth about leadership—and why shouting and control don’t build trust

- How great leaders stay calm and create psychological safety in chaos

- Why humor and play are essential tools—even in high-stakes environments

- The powerful concept: “the leader sets the weather”

- How to make better decisions using the pause, think, act approach

- Neil’s personal story of resilience and what it really means to keep showing up when it’s hard

Resources Mentioned on this Episode

- The Leadership Book by Neil Jurd (Available on Amazon & Audible)

- Leader Connect (Hands-on leadership development programs)

- Neil Jurd on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neiljurd/

Featured Guest: Neil Jurd

Neil Jurd OBE For 20 years Neil served as an army officer leading soldiers on operations in Iraq, Sierra Leone, Firmer Yugoslavia and Yemen, as well as teaching leadership at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and serving as Deputy President of the Army Officer Selection Board. Whilst in the Army Neil qualified as a Joint Services Mountain Expedition leader, Day Skipper and Dive Leader and led expeditions in Pakistan, Belize and South Africa.

Neil established Leader-Connect 10 years ago and major clients include Virgin Media, The University of Sheffield, Sanofi Pharmaceuticals and Abingdon Learning Trust. Leader-Connect offer accredited experiential leadership courses and have a subscription based online learning platform. Neil’s book 'The Leadership Book’ gets excellent reviews. Leader-Connect recently won the Cumbrian Training and Education Business of the year Award 2024 and were runners up for the Institute of Leadership's most innovative training course.

Neil has founded two successful local charities, including the Michelle Jurd Trust which supports adventurous training for young people, is a director of Alertacall and an Entrepreneur in Residence at Lancaster University. He was awarded the OBE in 2021 and the British Citizen Award in 2020. Neil served as Commandant of Lancashire Army Cadet Force between 2014 and 2019, and was the Army Cadet Force’s Director Initial Officer Training from 2019-2024. Neil is an active supporter of The Polar Academy and enjoys cross country skiing in Norway.

Connect with Neil:

Website: https://leader-connect.co.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neiljurd/

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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- Free Workplace Pivot Assessment + Playbook

What Most Leaders Get Wrong About Workplace Culture and Inclusion with Natalie Holder

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Most workplace cultures don’t fail because of bad intentions—they fail because of blind spots. In this eye-opening episode, Natalie Holder breaks down what leaders misunderstand about inclusion, accountability, and psychological safety—and how to build cultures where people and performance truly thrive.

What You’ll Hear:

- The difference between checking the box vs. truly inclusive leadership

- Why most people misunderstand harassment, culture, and workplace behavior

- How small leadership habits (like saying hello) can shape entire cultures

- The hidden signs your workplace culture is quietly breaking down

- What psychological safety really looks like—and why it matters

- Real-world examples of how leadership decisions impact trust, performance, and retention

Resources Mentioned on this Episode:

- Connect with Natalie Holder (LinkedIn + resources in show notes)

- YouTube Channel: Quest Employment Initiatives (Workplace education & insights)

- Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences

Featured Guest: Natalie Holder

Natalie Holder is an employment lawyer and senior leaders seek her advice when implementing inclusive culture initiatives that build strong businesses. Having led global human resources compliance for Starwood Hotels and Resorts and serving as the Chief Diversity Officer for Stanford University’s SLAC and the United States Capitol Police, she conducts workplace investigations, develops compliance trainings, and designs seminars and workshops that focus on leadership and self-development skills. She has provided court ordered training and expertise in high-stakes discrimination and harassment cases involving Fox News, the New York City Fire Department and many others.

Connect with Nathalie:

Website: https://natalieholderspeaks.lovable.app/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalievholder/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@QUESTEmploymentInitiativesLLC/videos

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exclusion-Strategies-Improving-Diversity-Recruitment/dp/1614388652

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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What Stand-Up Comedy Teaches Us About Human Nature and Confidence with Danny Dechi

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered what would happen if you just went for it—on stage or in life? In this fun and insightful episode, comedian Danny Dechi shares how humor, play, and perspective can help you take risks, read people better, and bring more joy into everyday life.

What You’ll Hear:

Why comedy is really about seeing life differently
The truth about stand-up: why beginners fail (and why that’s a good thing)
How humor builds confidence, connection, and emotional resilience
The surprising link between comedy and understanding human nature
Why play and creativity don’t disappear—you just stop giving yourself permission
Danny’s journey from childhood jokes to performing on national TV (and yes… the pencil makes an appearance)

Resources Mentioned on this Episode

- Connect with Danny Dechi: Website: https://dannydechi.com

- Join Danny’s live or virtual comedy shows (Bay Area + Zoom open mics)

- Malcolm’s improv + laughter experiences

Featured Guest: Danny Dechi

Comedian Danny Dechi performs all over the San Francisco Bay Area and host live and online comedy shows. Also performed on Late Late Show with James Corden and The New Gong Show.

Connect with Danny:

Website: https://dannydechi.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danny.dechi

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dannydechi/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@danny.dechi

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

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

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

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

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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www.youtube.com/theclarences

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

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

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 benefits
How gardening can become a powerful form of play, creativity, and connection
Leslie’s unexpected journey from art school to urban farming and community food sharing
The playful and unconventional story behind her music career and joining The Clarences
Why performing music can reveal a different side of ourselves—and that’s okay
A 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 Reaction
Lisa 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 Medeiros
Episode 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.facebook.com/theclarences

www.instagram.com/theclarences

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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www.youtube.com/theclarences

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

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

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 moments
Erin’s journey from theater and stand-up comedy to performing with The Clarences
The surprising role humor plays in spirituality, intuition, and healing
How asking one simple question—“What’s good right now?”—can shift your mindset
Why creative expression doesn’t always follow the traditional rules of comedy or music
How 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.facebook.com/theclarences

www.instagram.com/theclarences

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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www.youtube.com/theclarences

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

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

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 emotionally
How childhood influences — from toys to Sesame Street — shape creativity
Robert’s journey from discovering music at age 13 to composing songs today
The creative process behind The Clarences’ quirky songwriting style
Why playfulness and improv are essential ingredients in art and life
A 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.facebook.com/theclarences

www.instagram.com/theclarences

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

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 connection
The hidden science behind laughter’s tempo (yes, laughter has measurable beats!)
How silence is part of the rhythm — and why shared pauses build trust
The courage to dance, sing, or lead without waiting to “get it right”
Why group laughter works like improvised music
A spotlight on indie rock band The Clarences and their delightfully quirky creative rhythm

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

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 reactive
How leaders can replace blame and punishment with learning, mastery, and growth
The simple phrase that instantly creates psychological safety: “Help me understand”
How unaddressed human issues quietly become innovation, retention, and revenue risks
What “joy space” is—and why joyful workplaces outperform fearful ones
How 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

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

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 essentials
How play creates connection, trust, and long-term employee engagement
The shift from command-and-control leadership to human-centered leadership
Why leaders who ignore joy risk burnout, disengagement, and silent quitting
How understanding different work styles strengthens communication and teamwork
A 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

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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Why Joy, Play, and Laughter Create Better Learners—Inside Vibrant Family Education with Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

This episode is a heartfelt, hope-filled conversation about reclaiming education as a family-centered experience. Christina and Herb Heyavert share how joy, laughter, and empowered parenting can transform learning—and strengthen family bonds for life.

What You’ll Hear:

- Why joy and laughter open the brain for deeper learning—and why pressure shuts it down

- How empowering parents (not systems) leads to happier, more successful kids

- The surprising benefits of play, movement, and delayed formal education, especially for boys

- Kristina’s powerful story of leaving the public school system to truly serve families

- How homeschooling and traditional schooling can work—when families lead with values

- Why strong education choices today help prevent family disconnection tomorrow (Warning: You may find yourself nodding vigorously… possibly while laughing.)

Resources Mentioned on This Episode

Free Gift: Education at Home in 10 Simple Steps – A practical guide to help parents confidently explore educational options

Website: VibrantFamilyEducation.com – Programs, support, and resources for empowered families Podcast: Bringing Education Home – Ongoing conversations about education, family, and lifelong learning

Final Thought (because we can’t help ourselves):

Education doesn’t need to feel like a pressure cooker with a pop quiz attached. When learning is rooted in connection, play, and laughter, kids don’t just succeed—they thrive.

Featured Guest: Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

Kristina and Herbert have been partners in life for 34 years, raising two boys and blending her 27-year teaching career with his business and entrepreneurial expertise. Together, they founded Vibrant Family Education and the Bringing Education Home podcast to help families reimagine learning, strengthen relationships, and raise happy, healthy, successful children—building better communities and a better world, one family at a time.

Find us at https://www.vibrantfamilyeducation.com and https://bringingeducationhome.com

Follow Kristina and Herbert :

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristina.heaghavritt

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-heagh-avritt

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/6632664253430731

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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How to Grab the Key of Courage & Live Above the Line with Carolyn Cooper

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

This episode is a heartfelt, laughter-filled conversation about courage, presence, and choosing freedom over fear—one brave moment at a time. Malcolm Grissom, The Stand-Up C.E.O.™, and visionary guide Carolyn Cooper explore how laughter, improv, and conscious choice help us step out of fear and into a life of meaning, joy, and authentic connection.

What You’ll Hear:

Why presence is power—and how being in the moment dissolves fear
Carolyn's powerful metaphor of “the key of courage” and how to use it in real life
How laughter creates vulnerability, safety, and deeper human connection
The surprising link between applied improv, trust, and personal freedom
A breakdown of Carolyn's AIM HIGH System and why presence is the game-changer
How creating safe spaces (like improv and laughter) trains courage for everyday life

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

21-Day Above the Line Living – Carolyn Cooper’s free guided experience (audio + journaling)
The AIM HIGH System – Activating Your Inspired Mindset
Love Inspired Leadership Podcast – Hosted by Carolyn Cooper

Featured Guest: Carolyn Cooper

Carolyn Cooper is a seasoned guide for high-capacity women whose outer success no longer matches their inner truth. Over four decades, she has walked beside leaders, healers, and visionaries who are done performing and ready to come home to who they really are. She created the AIM High Method, a three-phase journey of Truth, Transmutation, and Transmission that helps women release self-abandonment, regulate their leadership, and redesign life and business around their Authentic Identity—so peace, purpose, and impact can expand without costing them their soul.

Connect with Carolyn:

Website: https://www.theinspiredconnection.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredconnectioninc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InspiredBusinessDevelopment

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inspiredbusinessdevelopment/

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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Laughing Through the Muck: Healing Trauma, Reclaiming Safety & Finding Magic with Jennifer Nagel

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how laughter, presence, and deep connection help us navigate grief, trauma, and life’s heaviest moments. Together with soul-centered counselor Jennifer Nagel, we uncover how safety, authenticity, and healing begin—not by fixing ourselves—but by coming home to who we already are.

What You’ll Hear:

- Why laughter isn’t avoidance—it’s a bridge through pain and into presence

- How the Satir Model helps people heal from the inside out (and why the problem isn’t the problem)

- The difference between authentic laughter and “performance laughter” (yes, we’ve all done it)

- How psychological safety is created through shared humanity, tears, and joy

- A breathtaking story of collective healing that proves connection transcends culture and language

- Why laughter, play, and compassion are essential tools for nervous system regulation and resilience

Resources Mentioned on This Episode

Jennifer Nagel’s work & counseling practice: jennifernagelcounseling.com

Jennifer’s podcast: Magic in the Muck: A Soul’s Compass for Change

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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!

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How Laughter Keeps You Young: Reinventing Life, Creativity, and Courage at Any Age with Sandra Risser

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

This episode is a joyful reminder that it’s never too late to begin again. At 84 years young, comedian Sandra Risser proves that laughter, play, and curiosity are not just survival tools—they’re the secret to staying vibrant, relevant, and fully alive right now.

What You’ll Hear:

- Why laughter is a lifelong performance enhancer (not just a coping tool)

- How Sandra reinvented herself—and her voice—later in life

- The healing power of comedy for the brain, body, and spirit

- What performing on America’s Got Talent was really like at 84

- Why fun, not fear, is the best reason to keep creating

- How staying playful helps build resilience, friendships, and longevity

Resources Mentioned on This Episode

- Sandra Risser’s stand-up journey and live performances

- Reflections on America’s Got Talent and creative courage

- Related episodes of The Lighten Up Project on laughter, aging, and resilience

✨ Takeaway: You’re not too old. You’re not too late. You’re just getting warmed up.

Featured Guest: Sandra Risser

As a 25 year veteran of comedy Sandra is funny, sexy (for her age) & irreverent. Audiences of all ages love her tales of growing up in the golden age of sex, drugs & rock 'n roll. She features & headlines at clubs, casinos and other venues around the USA and performs one woman shows at festivals. On Season 20 of America’s Got Talent she received a “yes” from all 4 of the judges. Sandra took first place in the Funniest Comedian in the Valley competition and second place in the World Series of Comedy in Little Rock AK. She featured for national headlines Rocky LaPorte and Kris Kattan. You can hear her on Sirius XM

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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.

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✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway!

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How to Live Lightly: Reclaiming Joy, Laughter, and Self-Worth with Fatina “Tina” Mays

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

This episode is a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t have to be heavy. Fatina “Tina” Mays shares how laughter, self-talk, and courage helped her move from merely existing to fully living—and how you can do the same, starting today.

What You’ll Hear:

- Why laughter is not optional—it’s essential for emotional survival

- The difference between living and existing (and why it matters)

- How self-talk becomes a lifeline during burnout, fear, and discouragement

- Tina’s journey out of a long-term unhealthy environment and into joy

- Why laughter is light—and how light changes families, workplaces, and lives

- A simple daily practice to help you “live lightly” no matter what you’re facing

Resources Mentioned on This Episode

Slaay Queenz Boutique (upcoming launch)
Reflections on laughter, leadership, and emotional resilience
Related episodes of The Lighten Up Project exploring laughter as medicine

✨ Remember: healing doesn’t have to be heavy—sometimes, it starts with a smile.

About the Guest:

Fatina “Tina” Mays is a dynamic leader, mental-health professional, and entrepreneur who believes laughter is not optional—it’s essential. With a background in mental health and years of experience supporting individuals, families, and teams, Fatina brings a deeply human approach to leadership rooted in resilience, self-awareness, and hope. Her personal journey—from surviving a long-term unhealthy marriage to rediscovering joy, identity, and purpose—fuels her passion for helping others move from merely living to truly existing.

A firm advocate for self-talk, emotional responsibility, and healthy spontaneity, Fatina teaches that laughter is light, medicine, and a powerful tool for breaking cycles of fear, burnout, and isolation. She is also the founder of Slaay Queenz Boutique, an empowerment-focused fashion brand, and an emerging author currently developing a book designed to challenge, heal, and uplift future queens and kings. Fatina leads with compassion, faith, and the unwavering belief that life is meant to be enjoyed—out loud.

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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!

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Built to Rise

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Hope isn’t passive—it moves, even when you feel stuck. In this episode of The Lighten Up Project, Malcolm Grissom shares a deeply personal story of resilience, reminding us that hope is an active choice made one small step at a time. Through laughter, imagination, mindfulness, and courage, this episode reframes setbacks as momentum and proves that every step forward—no matter how small—is a victory.

What You’ll Hear:

Hope is active and requires movement, even when the step feels small or uncertain.
Laughter, play, and imagination reduce stress and create the mental space needed for hope to grow.
Your past may shape you, but it is your present choices that define who you are becoming.
Every step forward—slow, awkward, or imperfect—is still a victory.
Practices like affirmations, mindfulness, and taking risks steadily build resilience over time.

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

Share the Love

✨ If this episode lit something up in you… tag us on Instagram @HighVibeLeaders and let us know your biggest takeaway!

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The Humor Tree

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if humor isn’t something you “have” or “don’t have”—but something you were born with and simply buried? In this episode of The Lighten Up Project, Malcolm Grissom introduces The Humor Tree—a powerful way to understand humor as more than jokes. You’ll discover how play, laughter, and imagination are essential tools for managing stress, restoring creativity, and reconnecting with hope.

This conversation invites you to reclaim humor not as performance, but as a natural part of being human.

What You’ll Hear:

Everyone has a sense of humor Humor begins with play—and play is something we’re all born with.
Humor is more than comedy: It includes play, gamification, and “benign violations,” not just jokes and punchlines.
Laughter is a pressure valve for stress and anxiety: Without humor, emotional pressure builds—and connection breaks down.
Creativity and hope depend on humor: Laughter activates imagination, and imagination makes hope possible.
Being humorous isn’t about being funny: It’s about being present, natural, and human—sometimes simply being yourself is enough.

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

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

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