This week the Lighten Up Project gets a fresh, younger perspective on pressure — on the court, on the track, and inside your own head. Seventh-grader, competitive tennis player, and TEDx speaker Vihaan Reddy shares the simple four-step framework he created to trade split-second reactions for calm, intentional choices. Proof that leading with intention (and a good laugh) isn't reserved for grown-ups.

What You'll Hear

• What PACE stands for — Pause, Assess, Choose, Engage — and how Vihaan uses it to stay steady in the heat of competition
• The on-court moment when PACE turned a struggling forehand into his strongest shot
• Why Vihaan laughs off his own mistakes mid-match, and how that lifts the weight so he's ready for the next point
• How stepping onto the TEDx stage (after six months of prep and a nervous pre-show pep talk) taught him that doing your best is winning
• Why a science teacher who makes the class laugh every single day made school feel welcoming — and what that says about humor and belonging
• Vihaan's take on supporting classmates who feel alone, from cracking a kind joke to dreaming up a school buddy program
• A reminder that real winning isn't always about the scoreboard — sometimes it's simply doing the best you can

Resources Mentioned on this Episode

• Vihaan Reddy's TEDx Talk — where he introduces the PACE framework to a wider audience
• The PACE Framework — Pause, Assess, Choose, Engage: a simple tool for leading with intention instead of reaction
• Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™

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/

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