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

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/

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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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:

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

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

1. 21-Day Above the Line Living – Caroline Cooper’s free guided experience (audio + journaling)
2. The AIM HIGH System – Activating Your Inspired Mindset
3. Love Inspired Leadership Podcast – Hosted by Caroline 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

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/

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!

🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you.

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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

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/

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!

🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you.

🔊 Listen & Subscribe

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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

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/

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!

🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you.

🔊 Listen & Subscribe

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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

1. Slaay Queenz Boutique (upcoming launch)
2. Reflections on laughter, leadership, and emotional resilience
3. 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

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/

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!

🦋 Don’t forget to rate & review — it helps us reach more conscious rebels like you.

🔊 Listen & Subscribe

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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:

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

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

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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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:

1. Everyone has a sense of humor Humor begins with play—and play is something we’re all born with.
2. Humor is more than comedy: It includes play, gamification, and “benign violations,” not just jokes and punchlines.
3. Laughter is a pressure valve for stress and anxiety: Without humor, emotional pressure builds—and connection breaks down.
4. Creativity and hope depend on humor: Laughter activates imagination, and imagination makes hope possible.
5. 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

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

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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This episode is a playful yet powerful invitation to lighten the load you’ve been carrying. Malcolm Grissom shares how laughter, joy, and one unforgettable “mistake” helped him reclaim his voice—and why laughter isn’t the opposite of pain, but a doorway through it.

What You’ll Hear:

1. How laughter became a lifeline after illness, bullying, and self-doubt
2. Why mistakes aren’t failures—but unexpected doorways to connection
3. The surprising role joy plays in resilience, healing, and confidence
4. How reclaiming your voice starts with play, not perfection
5. Why laughter deserves a seat at the table as a real health strategy

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.

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Welcome to the Lighten Up Project — where life gets real, but it doesn’t have to stay heavy. Host, Malcolm Grissom invites you to drop the emotional baggage (no forklift required), laugh a little louder, and rediscover joy through play, honesty, and heart. Come for the laughs, stay for the truth, and leave feeling lighter.