Finding Mastery with Dr. Michael Gervais

How Improv Can Level Up Our Creativity, Connection and Leadership | Kelly Leonard, VP of The Second City

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Sep 27, 2023

Kelly Leonard, VP of The Second City, discusses how improv comedy can enhance creativity, connection, and leadership. Topics include reframing challenges, building a culture of radical creativity, tools for deepening relationships, and approaching grief. Great for leaders, those seeking a fresh perspective, and improv enthusiasts.

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Introduction

00:00 • 5min

The History and Impact of The Second City

04:56 • 6min

Toothpaste tablets and superfood bars

10:27 • 5min

Applying Improvisation Techniques for Communication and Creativity

15:09 • 16min

Enhancing Sleep and Optimizing Life

30:54 • 6min

The Art of Listening and Patience

36:43 • 11min

Following the Fear: Improv and Taking Risks

47:53 • 10min

Creating a Safe Space for Improvisation

58:15 • 20min

The Importance of Relationships and Connection in Improv

01:17:53 • 12min

Book, Podcast, and Sponsorship Discussion

01:29:30 • 2min

Could improv comedy be the key to unlocking human potential?

Our guest today isn't just tossing around this idea—he's used the alchemy of the improv stage to forge groundbreaking strategies that are sure to ripple through business, sport, and life itself.

Let's set the stage for Kelly Leonard. His title—Vice President of Creative Strategy, Innovation, and Business Development—only begins to capture his role at The Second City. And this isn't just any theater. It's a global comedy powerhouse that gave us legends like Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler, to name a few.

Yet the improv stage is merely a starting point for Kelly's broader mission. He's on an epic journey to inspire and empower people to use improvisation as a tool for positive change and growth. Kelly's best-selling book, 'Yes, And,' and a pioneering partnership with the University of Chicago reflect this mission—bridging behavioral science with the principles of improv.

I love how Kelly offers us unconventional wisdom on reframing challenges, daring to risk, and savoring the present moment in all its unpredictability.

And our conversation goes deep. We explore thoughtful leadership, building a culture that unlocks radical creativity, tools to deepen relationships and even some remarkably profound ways to approach grief.

So, if you're leading a team, wanting to live fiercely in the now, or simply searching for a fresh lens on life's curveballs, this is one episode you won't want to miss.

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