In this brand new episode, Kassy LaBorie and Kirsten Anderson explore the transformative power of play in adult life, particularly in the workplace. Kirsten shares her journey from the toy industry to becoming a playologist, emphasizing the importance of play for creativity, team building, and psychological safety. They discuss practical techniques for integrating play into professional settings, the significance of creating a playful environment, and how play can enhance communication and collaboration. Kirsten also provides actionable activities for facilitators to foster engagement and connection among participants.

Kirsten’s Links:

• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/KirstenPlaying

• Website: https://integrateplay.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenplaying/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KirstenPlaying

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirstenplaying/

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kirstenplaying

• Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6bxmODDjJWtik8oFZ5sOhU?si=b98caf6c3cf3429f

• eSpeakers:  https://www.espeakers.com/marketplace/profile/46499/kirsten-anderson

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Play and Art

02:58 The Importance of Play in Adult Life

05:52 Play as a Tool for Team Building and Resilience

08:35 Pillars of a Playful Mindset

11:34 Transformative Moments in Play Facilitation

14:13 Applying Play in Personal and Professional Life

16:55 Exploring Creativity and Playfulness in Work

19:15 The Power of Play in Learning

21:08 Overcoming Resistance in Corporate Settings

23:02 Creating Psychological Safety through Play

25:31 The Art of Noticing and Naming

28:29 Engaging Introductions: Who's Who Activity

32:41 Integrating Play into Everyday Work

Takeaways

• Emphasizes the need for adults to engage in play.

• Play should not be limited to evenings and weekends; it can be integrated into daily life.

• Creativity is closely linked to play; without play, creativity suffers.

• Facilitators should create psychological safety to encourage openness.

• Physical actions can enhance memory and engagement during activities.

• Naming what is happening in the room can enhance group dynamics.

• Play can help teams build resilience and adaptability.

• Using playful methods can increase creative solutions by over 15%.

• Facilitators should invite participation rather than force it. 

play, creativity, team building, adult play, psychological safety, facilitation, playfulness, workplace culture, resilience, innovation

In this engaging conversation, Kassy LaBorie interviews Russ Powell, a multifaceted artist and leadership trainer. They explore the connections between juggling, music, and effective leadership, discussing how artistic expression can enhance facilitation and training. Russ shares his journey from street performing in New Orleans to becoming an executive coach, emphasizing the importance of practice, improvisation, and managing nerves in both performance and leadership roles. The discussion also touches on networking strategies and the value of allowing participants to take charge in learning environments.

Here are a few links and articles related to and supportive of our conversation: 

• How to Play Thirty-Five — A terrific game for helping teams brainstorm and prioritize ideas.

• Leadership and the Middle Path — My foundational leadership program used by 150+ startups and Fortune 100 teams. 

• Good Performer vs. Bad System — Blog post on why systems matter more than training alone. 

• Six Rules of Training Every Manager Should Know — Blog post on practical ways to reinforce training efforts. 

• A Juggler’s Guide to ISD — A fun talk I gave a few years back on the intersection of juggling and instructional design. Includes more on Thiagi’s “let the inmates run the asylum” principle, and a little juggling. 

Russ’s Links:

• Website: https://www.russpowell.com/

• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russpowell/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russpowellconsulting

• BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/fruvous2.bsky.social

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Russ Powell

05:39 ISD vs. ID

10:14 Exploring the World of Juggling

15:26 Juggling as a Learning Tool

18:20 Applying Music & Juggling to Facilitation

19:32 Practice & Rehearsal

24:48 Managing Nerves

28:31 Russ Teaches Us A New Skill

33:50 How Improv Helps Facilitation

36:17 Drop Lines

Takeaways

• Juggling serves as a metaphor for managing multiple responsibilities.

• Artistic backgrounds can enhance leadership training.

• Street performing teaches valuable lessons in audience engagement.

• Music can create a welcoming atmosphere in workshops.

• Nervousness is a natural part of performing and can be channeled positively.

• Improv skills are beneficial for facilitators and leaders.

• Participants should be empowered to contribute in workshops.

• Drop lines can help recover from mistakes in performances.

• Practice and rehearsal are crucial for success in any performance.

juggling, leadership, street performing, instructional design, music, improv, training, coaching, executive leadership

In this episode, Amy Chapman, a professional in talent development, shares her journey from theater to corporate training. She emphasizes the importance of creativity in learning and how the arts can transform thinking and problem-solving. Amy discusses her innovative approaches to training, the significance of emotional intelligence, and the need for engaging learning experiences. She also provides practical tips for boosting confidence and explores the concept of pantomime as a form of creative expression.

Amy’s Links:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amychapman-cptd 

• Website: amychapman.org 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyinanticipation/ 

• Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HqGI3pBOAWbkwUTe6AwBL?si=ca36264b9de14011 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Amy Chapman and Her Journey

05:29 Creative Approaches to Corporate Training

08:59 Engaging Learning Experiences: Beyond Traditional Methods

13:42 The Impact of Arts on Thinking and Problem Solving

18:53 Creative Solutions in Learning and Development

24:28 Exploring Pantomime and Creative Expression

27:27 Leveraging Technology for Creative Learning

Takeaways

• Training should be engaging and enjoyable for participants.

• Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in effective learning.

• The arts can significantly influence problem-solving and thinking processes.

• Building relationships in learning and development is essential for success.

• Pantomime is a valuable tool for creative expression and storytelling.

• Innovative training strategies can lead to improved business outcomes.

• Technology can enhance creativity and problem-solving in training. 

corporate training, creative learning, emotional intelligence, pantomime, arts in education, innovative training, SOPs, problem solving, confidence building

In this episode, Kassy LaBorie and guest Gordon Lam explore the intersection of music and facilitation, emphasizing the importance of learning through experience, the transition to virtual training, and the role of authenticity in engaging audiences. They discuss how preparation and the ability to embrace mistakes can enhance the training experience, as well as the nuances of using humor in a corporate setting. The conversation highlights the value of creativity and adaptability in delivering effective training sessions.

Gordon’s Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonlam/  

• Website: www.onthelam.com 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ 

Chapters:

00:00 The Art of Learning Jazz and Blues

15:26 Transitioning to Virtual Training

18:23 The Importance of Preparation

20:19 Embracing Mistakes in Performance

23:49 Authenticity in Facilitation

26:40 Understanding Audience Dynamics

29:09 Balancing Creativity and Professionalism

Takeaways:

• The best way to learn is by doing and teaching.

• Preparation is key to managing nerves during presentations.

• Mistakes in performance often go unnoticed by the audience.

• Authenticity helps in connecting with the audience.

• Humor should be used carefully in corporate training.

• Learning should be internalized, not just memorized.

• Adapting to the audience's needs is crucial for engagement.

• Creativity can enhance the training experience.

jazz, blues, virtual training, facilitation, authenticity, mistakes, humor, creativity, corporate training, audience engagement

In this special pop up Sports & Facilitation episode, Kassy LaBorie and guest, Alex Dumas explore how athletic experiences shape personal growth, confidence, and public speaking skills. Alex shares his journey from feeling insecure to finding confidence through football, emphasizing the importance of practice and preparation. They delve into the mindset required for effective performance and introduce the WIN framework, which focuses on self-worth, intentions, and networking. 

Mentioned In This Episode:

• Warm Up Songs: I Want It All by The Arctic Monkeys & Dearest Alfred by Khruangbin

• Book about Alex's ancestral history: The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal, and the Real Count of Monte Cristo by Tom Reiss

Alex’s Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexdumas 

• Website: speakeralexdumas.com 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Alex Dumas

08:43 How Sports Influence Facilitation

14:01 The Freedom That Sports Unleash

17:15 Connecting with the Audience

19:49 Embracing Athleticism and Personal Growth

22:37 The Importance of Preparation 

25:23 The WIN Framework: Worth, Intentions, and Network

31:17 Practical Tips for Speakers and Trainers

33:51 This History of the Dumas Name

Takeaways:

• Sports can be a significant confidence booster.

• Preparation and practice are essential for success.

• Mindset plays a crucial role in performance.

• Public speaking fears can be overcome with practice.

• Athletes often rehearse scenarios to prepare for performance.

• Embracing vulnerability can help you connect with your audience.

sports, facilitation, personal growth, public speaking, preparation, mindset, WIN framework, performance, confidence, athletes

Surprise!
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗞𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 podcast is launching a 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗼𝗽-𝘂𝗽 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀.
Every once in a while, an episode will drop exploring how 𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸, 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲r 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲.

In this conversation, Kassy LaBorie and Steven Patterson explore the intersection of vocal performance and learning and development. They discuss the importance of storytelling, authenticity, and emotional connection in both singing and training. Steven shares his journey as a vocal performer and how it informs his work, emphasizing the need for trust, preparedness, and the power of silence and breathing. 

Mentioned In This Episode:

• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

• Talk on Water, Attaining the Mindset for Powerhouse Presentations, Stephanie Scotti

• Chase Cashman helping his young son stand on his own:   https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1nP2FlRnYMo

Steven’s Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sp184/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/do.more.have.less/ 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Steven Patterson

03:49 Connecting Singing and Learning

09:41 The Art of Evoking Emotion

12:00 Authenticity in Storytelling

14:32 Can Anyone Sing?

18:25 The Foundation of Learning and Performance

24:26 Understanding Different Learning Styles

29:29 Mindset and Preparedness for Performance

35:09 The Power of Silence in Communication

37:49 Creating Remarkable Learning Experiences

Takeaways:

• Trust yourself, you've done the work.

• Every great piece of music has conflict.

• Fail to plan, plan to fail.

• Allow for silence, it helps the audience process.

• You can't rock and roll until you know the notes.

• Learning is about making connections.

• Not everyone is a soloist, and that's okay.

learning and development, vocal performance, storytelling, public speaking, authenticity, trust, engagement, collaboration, training, emotional connection

Let's ignite your spark!

In this episode, host Kassy LaBorie interviews Taylor Kaschke,  the Communications and Experiences Manager at Crawford Murphy & Tilly. They discuss how theatre and performance have shaped their communication skills and confidence, and how storytelling can be integrated into learning to enhance employee engagement. Taylor shares her view of feedback as data points and how her growth mindset has helped her in professional development. 

Mentioned In This Episode:

• The 5 Choices to Extraordinary Productivity: https://franklincovey.ca/the-5-choices/ 

Taylor’s Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylorbkaschke/ 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Taylor Kaschke

06:59 The Role of Communication in Civil Infrastructure

11:39 Experiential Learning and Employee Onboarding

16:27 Talent Development at the St. Louis Zoo

21:19 Engaging Participants in Learning

23:00 The Importance of Storytelling in Training

25:40 Building Confidence Through Preparation

28:06 Strategies for Developing Confidence

30:02 Encouraging Rehearsal in High-Stakes Situations

32:18 Receiving and Utilizing Feedback Effectively

Takeaways:

• Feedback should be viewed as data points for growth.

• Structured learning experiences foster engagement.

• Confidence builds through preparation and practice.

• Storytelling is crucial in training and development.

• Creating a supportive environment encourages participation.

• Navigating feedback requires empathy and understanding.

• Bringing artistry into the workplace enhances joy and connection.

communication, talent development, feedback, learning experiences, theatre, confidence, storytelling, hybrid work, structured learning, employee engagement

In this engaging conversation, Kassy LaBorie and Hilary Blair explore the transformative power of theatre in communication and training. Hilary shares her unique approach to “degunking” individuals, helping them shed the layers that inhibit their authentic voices. They discuss the importance of friction in conversations, distinguishing it from conflict, and how to facilitate productive discussions in teams. 

Hilary’s Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hbarticulate/ 

• Website: https://www.articulate.com/ 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/ 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Hilary Blair

03:53 Degunking and Finding Your Voice

07:37 The Transformative Power of Theater

09:31 Articulate: The Intersection of Art and Communication

11:35 Understanding Executive Presence and Friction

17:04 Friction vs. Conflict: A New Perspective

23:05 Reframing Soft Skills

26:03 Navigating the Messy Middle of Communication

30:52 Understanding Walls vs. Boundaries

35:42 The Importance of Technique in Learning

Takeaways:

• Friction in conversations can lead to innovation and growth, while conflict often results in a dead end.

• Establishing boundaries is crucial for effective communication and maintaining a safe space.

• Theatre techniques can enhance business training by fostering creativity and engagement.

• Effective communication is a blend of tools, skills, and individual techniques.

• Friction can create opportunities for deeper understanding and collaboration.

communication, theatre, executive presence, friction, conflict resolution, training, coaching, personal development, public speaking, storytelling