Improv Your Parenting

In this episode of Improv Your Parenting, host Jeremy talks with improviser and festival organizer Jessica Keith about how improv skills show up in daily life with kids—especially through imagination play with her nearly five-year-old daughter. Jessica shares how characters like Paddington Bear and their nightly “Push Down Salon” routine help her daughter process school experiences, and how improv tools like leading questions, offering silliness alongside guidance, and anthropomorphizing everyday objects support connection and learning. They discuss the challenges of repetition in play, managing parental frustration and limits (timers, clear next-step expectations, walking away when needed), and how Waldorf education’s predictable rhythm reduces anxiety and supports confidence. Jessica reflects on how parenting has simplified her character work while also making it harder to switch back into adult performance at times, including a recent disorienting on-stage experience. The conversation expands into Jessica’s view of play and improv as a non-religious spiritual practice, a way to cope with a heavy world, and a path to community-building. She describes founding Gather Improv during COVID restrictions at her in-laws’ wedding venue, growing from about 45 participants in its first year to around 130, and experimenting with community experiences like “Sunday Moss.” Jessica also shares ideas inspired by Bluey for helping parents access playful interaction with their kids and imagines an “improv church” where people gather regularly to play.

00:00 Welcome + Meet Improv Mom Jessica Keith

01:08 Improv with Kids: Daily Imagination Play at Home & School

02:33 Paddington Bear as Play Therapy (Processing School Stuff)

06:02 Staying Present Without Burning Out: Time Limits & Solo Play

07:57 How Improv Training Shapes Parenting (Non-Human Characters & Worldbuilding)

10:15 Her Childhood Imagination & How It Led to Theater

12:51 Bedtime Characters: Finger Dudes & “Push Down Salon” Routine

15:10 Handling Frustration + Waldorf “Rhythm of the Day” for Smoother Transitions

22:29 When Parenting Feeds the Improv: Simpler Characters, Harder Shows

24:34 Improv vs. Parenting Play: Switching Scene Partners

25:54 When Play Gets Repetitive: Safety, Tropes, and Losing Discovery

29:49 Parent Guilt & Setting Boundaries: ‘Not Right Now’ Without Shame

32:04 Distractible Parent Brain: ADHD-ish Moments and Keeping Promises

33:16 Preparing for What’s Next: Capacity, Presence, and ‘Woo Woo’ Play

34:29 Play as Spiritual Practice (and Antidote to Heavy Times)

38:19 From Kids to Community: Bringing Improv Play to Parents

40:07 Bluey-Inspired Parent Play: Simple Games and ‘Thoughts in a Box’

42:59 Building Joy in Ireland: The Gather Improv Festival Origin Story

44:42 Sunday Moss & Improv Church: Nature, Community, and a Big Vision

48:02 Final Wrap: Gratitude, Recording Jokes, and Where to Find More

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

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Embracing "Good Enough" Parenting: The Power of Improv in Connecting with Children with Lacy Alana

Welcome to 'Improv Your Parenting,' where we explore the art of turning parenting into play. In this episode, we're joined by Lacey Alana, a psychotherapist, trainer, and applied improvisation specialist. Lacey, the founder of Yes. And Brain and co-director of Camp Yes And, shares her expertise in integrating play, neuroscience, and relational work across various settings. We discuss how improv can be effectively used in therapy, education, and community contexts to support neurodivergent youth and the adults in their lives. Lacey offers insights into the importance of being present, flexible, and adaptable, whether you're working with young children, teens, or adults. Learn how to meet kids where they are, foster connection, and navigate the challenges of parenting through the principles of improvisation.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:04 Meet Lacey Alana: Psychotherapist and Improv Specialist

01:07 Lacey's Journey into Improv and Therapy

02:11 Integrating Improv into Therapy and Education

07:05 Adapting Improv for Different Age Groups

09:44 The Importance of Flexibility and Perception

19:32 Practical Tips for Parents Using Improv

25:46 Facing and Accepting Emotions

27:11 Modeling Emotional Awareness for Kids

28:07 Reflective Parenting and Teaching

28:42 Managing Classroom and Parenting Chaos

30:43 The Good Enough Parent

40:13 Navigating Neurodivergence in Kids

48:04 Iterative Learning and Growth

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

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Improv Isn’t Parenting, but Helps: A Journey of Exploration and Connection with Matt Larsen

In this episode of Improv Your Parenting, we welcome Matt Larson, a veteran improv performer and father of two, to explore the intersection of improvisation and parenting. Matt shares insights from his extensive experience in improv at io Chicago, Second City, and more, explaining how the principles of improv—such as listening, emotional connection, and adaptability—translate into valuable parenting strategies. From balancing humor and discipline to navigating neurodivergence within the family, Matt offers practical advice and engaging anecdotes that highlight the importance of curiosity and non-judgment in both improv and parenting.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:05 Meet Matt Larson: Improv Veteran and Parent

00:42 Improv and Parenting: The Early Years

01:49 Lessons from Improv Applied to Parenting

04:03 The Importance of Listening in Improv and Parenting

07:46 Exploring and Heightening with Kids

10:10 Navigating Modern Parenting Challenges

18:07 Neurodivergence and Parenting

22:51 Conflict Resolution and Improv Techniques

29:36 Final Thoughts and Parenting Advice

Please join the community at [email protected]

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

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Unlocking the Joy of Learning: How Improv Connects with Teaching and Parenting with Elke Reid

Join us in this episode of 'Improv Your Parenting' as we welcome Elke Reed, a dynamic actor, voiceover artist, and improv expert from New York City. Elke shares her journey and expertise in integrating improv techniques with children, making learning and interaction playful and engaging. Discover how she adapts and tailors her approach to suit different age groups and personalities, fostering a fun and creative environment. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or someone new to working with kids, Elke's insights are invaluable. Tune in to explore how to turn everyday interactions into delightful and educational play.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:04 Meet Elke Reed Halene

00:42 Elke's Teaching Journey

02:25 Adapting Improv for Different Age Groups

05:27 Engaging Older Kids in Improv

10:32 Elke's Early Life and Passion for Performance

14:58 From Childhood Play to Professional Improv

18:13 Weekly Improv Jam Beginnings

18:30 Hosting and Teaching at Study Hall

19:13 Festival Participation and Networking

20:28 Transition to Teaching in Schools

22:00 Engaging Kids Through Physical Games

29:46 Challenges with Special Needs Students

33:14 Interacting with Parents and Recitals

35:59 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Teachers

37:33 Conclusion and Community Invitation

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

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The Art of Connection: How Improv Transforms Parenting and Teaching with Robin Fox

In this episode of Improv Your Parenting, we sit down with Robin Fox, a seasoned special educator, SEL specialist, and professional improv actor with over 40 years of experience. Robin shares insights into how improvisation can be a powerful tool in parenting, teaching, and building strong connections with children. From personal anecdotes of using improv with her own grandchildren to professional applications in schools, Robin discusses the transformative impact of play and mindfulness. Discover practical techniques for making everyday interactions with kids more playful and engaging, and learn about the potential of improv as an informal assessment tool. Join us for a rich conversation on cultivating creativity, connection, and presence in your parenting journey.

00:00 Introduction to Robin Fox: A Multifaceted Educator

00:59 Robin's Journey with Improv

02:15 The Impact of Improv on Personal Growth

04:58 Using Improv to Connect with Children

08:30 The Role of Play in Parenting

13:26 Empathy and Presence in Education

17:55 Mindfulness and Mistakes in Learning

21:03 The Power of Improv in Child Development

21:35 Overcoming Fear of Mistakes in Learning

23:41 Encouraging Playfulness in Adults

24:40 Building Connections Through Play

28:45 Navigating Play with Teenagers

35:13 Apologizing and Growing as Parents

37:13 Using Improv for Assessment

42:16 Final Thoughts and Resources

Please join the community at [email protected]

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

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Building Stronger Connections with Your Children with Tracy Shea-Porter

Welcome to Improv Your Parenting where we turn parenting into play! Join us as we chat with Tracy Shea Porter, CEO and Co-founder of Yes Unlimited. Tracy shares her incredible journey from the corporate world and improv community to using improvisation techniques to strengthen communication, adaptability, and trust. She discusses how improv helped her as a young mom and single parent and how it continues to shape her relationships, especially with her daughter. Learn about her passion for improv, her professional journey, and how she's bringing these skills to organizations to promote better teamwork and leadership. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the benefits of integrating improv into parenting and daily life!

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:04 Meet Tracy Shea Porter

01:12 Tracy's Journey into Improv

02:40 Improv and Parenting

03:23 Navigating Single Parenthood

05:52 Improv's Influence on Relationships

07:30 Tracy's Early Life and Improv

10:33 Raising a Child with Improv

13:15 Challenges and Lessons in Parenting

14:27 A Funny Incident with the Police

14:45 The Importance of Being Present

15:27 Using Improv in Parenting

15:54 Dealing with Irritation Through Improv

16:38 The Bonding Power of Improv

18:40 Returning to Improv After a Break

20:35 Building a Career in Improv

24:13 The Benefits of Improv in the Corporate World

26:35 Advice for New Parents

28:58 The Active Form of Meditation

29:44 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Learn more about Tracy here:

[email protected]

www.yesunlimited.ca

Tracy's Book: The "Yes, And" Business Evolution: Improv Skills for Leadership and Life

Now available: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CSB3JF1F

Hot New Release in Workplace Behavior and #1 in Team Management on Amazon

Please join the community at [email protected]

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

00:00 Introduction to Crystal Haralambou

00:22 Crystal's Journey in Improv

01:06 Improv in Education

01:52 Engaging Students with Improv

02:42 Improv for Social Skills

05:42 Challenges and Rewards of Teaching Improv

08:50 Improv with Different Age Groups

17:27 Improv Beyond the Classroom

20:42 Professional Development with Improv

23:05 Engaging Students in the Classroom

23:50 Teaching Audience Etiquette and Nonverbal Communication

24:50 Encouraging Bravery and Participation

26:26 Using Visual Aids in Improv

27:31 Focusing on Executive Functioning

28:33 Improv Games for Executive Functioning

30:39 The Hitchhiker Game and Higher Order Thinking

33:51 The Importance of Play for Adults

37:02 Advice for New Teachers

41:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

You can learn more about Crystal and her work at these links: 

https://improvxchange.com/

LinkedIn 

http://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalharalambou

IG

ImprovXchange 

https:www.instagram.com/improvxchange/

Please join the community at [email protected]

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartwarming episode of 'Improv Your Parenting,' we dive into the world of playful and authentic parenting with Chris Kenworthy, an embodiment coach, facilitator, and improviser. Chris, founder of the improv CoLab community, shares his journey of embracing improv to enhance human relationships, including those with children. Despite not being a parent himself, Chris explores how discovering his playful side has transformed his interactions with kids and offers valuable insights into letting go of judgment, being present, and embracing our messy, human nature. Learn how Chris uses improv to help adults reconnect with their playful selves, build better relationships with their children, and navigate the complexities of parenting with more joy and authenticity.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:06 Meet Chris Kenworthy: Embodiment Coach and Improviser

00:23 Chris's Journey with Improv and Authentic Relating

00:56 Chris's Initial Reactions to Improv

03:31 Transforming Judgment into Playfulness

05:08 The Impact of Improv on Personal Growth

08:10 Facilitation Techniques and Trauma-Informed Approaches

09:53 Building Playful Relationships with Kids

13:49 Creating a Playful Environment for Parents and Kids

19:21 Chris's Path to Leading Improv Workshops

20:39 Exploring Applied Improvisation

21:21 Parent-Child Relationships and Playfulness

22:32 Insecurities in Parenting

23:41 Rediscovering Playfulness

25:24 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability

26:57 Modeling Humanity and Mistakes

32:13 Navigating Reactions and Authority

38:09 Relating to Kids and Adults

40:56 Final Thoughts and Appreciation

Join Improv Your Parenting on Substack at: improvyourparenting.substack.com

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

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Join us on Improv Your Parenting as we explore the transformative power of improv with Craig Price, Director of Community Enrichment at the Naples Players Theater. Discover how Craig uses improvisational techniques to teach core communication skills to kids and adults with developmental disabilities and Alzheimer's. Learn about the journey that began with ski lessons and evolved into innovative programs for neurodivergent individuals and care partners of those with dementia. Craig delves into applying improv principles at home, the importance of listening, and the impact of playful interaction on personal growth and stress reduction. Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, this episode offers profound insights into using improv to enhance communication and connection in various settings. Join our community for more resources and videos on turning parenting into play.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:05 Meet Craig Price: Director of Community Enrichment

00:38 Craig's Journey in Improv and Theater

01:19 The Role of Improv in Parenting

02:02 Combining Passions: Improv and Teaching

03:10 Improv Techniques in Daily Life

05:51 Expanding Improv to Special Needs

15:34 Improv for Neurodivergent and Elder Care

20:05 Gamified Communication Skills

20:28 Interactive Name Game

21:13 Wizarding Communication Curriculum

21:47 Learning Through Play

22:12 Balancing Therapy and Fun

22:41 Patience and Turn-Taking

25:45 Relearning How to Play

27:49 Improv in Parenting

32:27 Guidance for New Parents

35:02 Creative Communication Workshops

37:02 Final Thoughts and Resources

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

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Join us in this enlightening episode of 'Improv Your Parenting,' featuring Ted DesMaisons, an educator and facilitator known for integrating curiosity, compassion, and play into his teachings. Ted, who lectures at Stanford and leads global training in advanced applied improvisation, talks about how to infuse parenting with playfulness and mindfulness. Drawing from his extensive background, including degrees from Stanford and Harvard, Ted shares his journey into improv, stories of interacting with children, and insights on applying improvisation principles to build trust and connection within families. The episode also highlights Ted’s upcoming project in China aimed at helping parents and children bond through playful mindfulness in a high-pressure educational environment. Learn practical tips to bring more joy and play into your parenting and family life.

00:00 Introduction to Ted DesMaisons

01:03 Ted's Interaction with Kids and Improv

01:58 Improv Stories and Personal Background

03:40 Ted's Improv Journey

05:44 Applying Improv in Teaching

06:29 Philosophy and Improv in Parenting

11:42 Building Trust Through Improv

15:50 Improv with Adults and Future Plans

18:51 Parallel Tracks for Parents and Kids

19:34 The Magic of Inclusive Play

20:12 Helping Adults Rediscover Play

21:05 Building Trust Through Gradual Exercises

22:42 Applying Playfulness at Home

24:42 Celebrating Failure and Self-Compassion

27:26 Mindfulness and Play for New Parents

30:54 Final Thoughts and Resources

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.