In this episode, I explain how to commit to your authentic self in your improv practice. You will learn to reframe perceived weaknesses into compelling strengths on stage. Your messy and imperfect parts are exactly what your scenes need.

I discuss how neurodivergent performers can use their unique traits. The episode also covers how to collaborate effectively with scene partners who have different brain wiring. I share a personal story from my past as a dance fitness teacher. A very clumsy moment taught me how to connect with an audience through imperfection. We apply that lesson directly to your scene work.

You will see how specific traits, like a literal take or a deadpan delivery, can be an asset in your performance. I also address traits that can be challenging in a scene, like monologuing. I provide practical methods to manage these traits, such as using a character to guide your choices.

Ultimately, this episode helps you build self-awareness. This allows you to understand your own gifts and collaborate more effectively with your team.

NEW CONTENT - PODCAST PERFORMANCE LAB

Find Jen deHaan's latest content in the new show Podcast Performance Lab. It contains acting exercises and other information about creating shows, improvising for video and audio content, and more.

Find it here, or subscribe to "Podcast Performance Lab" wherever you get podcasts.

Downloadable content

Download the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).

Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You"

More resources

1. Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.
2. Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.

Support

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About

This podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.

This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.

Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at https://stereoforest.com/newsletter

This podcast was made in British Columbia, Canada by StereoForest Podcasts.

Mentioned in this episode:

Podcast Performance Lab

In this show we take the most effective tools from improv performance and behavioural psychology, and apply them directly to your video and audio content. If you're building a personal brand, B2B show, or a creative new podcast, you know how you say things matters just as much as what you say.

What to expect:

Psychology of Presence: Why listeners trust some voices and tune out others (and how to fix "flat" audio).

Unscripted Strategy & Exercises: How to speak naturally using tools from improv & behavioural science.

Production Strategy: Systems for video podcasting that don't burn you out.

Host: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.stereoforest.com/lab

Podcast Performance Lab

In this show we take the most effective tools from improv performance and behavioural psychology, and apply them directly to your video and audio content. If you're building a personal brand, B2B show, or a creative new podcast, you know how you say things matters just as much as what you say.

What to expect:

Psychology of Presence: Why listeners trust some voices and tune out others (and how to fix "flat" audio).

Unscripted Strategy & Exercises: How to speak naturally using tools from improv & behavioural science.

Production Strategy: Systems for video podcasting that don't burn you out.

Host: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.stereoforest.com/lab

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Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp