Shows
Improv Your ParentingTurning Challenges Into PlayImprov Your Parenting: Creating Playful and Responsive Connections with Kat KoppettIn this episode of 'Improv Your Parenting,' we're joined by Kat Koppett, founder of Koppett consultancy and a seasoned improv and storytelling expert. Kat shares her unique approach to parenting using improvisational techniques, her personal experiences co-parenting her daughter, and the importance of creating a flexible and supportive environment for kids. With a rich background that includes working with a diverse client list such as Apple, NASA, and the United Nations, Kat explains the power of the 'Yes, And' principle, the...2025-04-1839 min
If This Is True with Chris HallKat Koppett--Applied Improvisation CEO and Performer!!Kat Koppett is the Eponymous Founder of Koppett, a consultancy specializing in the use of improv and storytelling techniques to enhance individual and group performance. She has worked with diverse clients including Meta, Apple, Prezi, PwC, NASA, Havas Health, Mass General Hospital, the United Nations and the Clinton Global Initiative.Her book Training to Imagine: Practical Improvisational Theatre Techniques to Enhance Creativity, Teamwork, Leadership, and Learning , is considered a seminal work in the field of Applied Improv and is used by professionals around the world. She has given two TEDx talks on the use of improv...2025-03-1532 min
Women at Halftime Podcast332.Navigating Change with Applied Improvisation with Kat KoppettToday, we’re exploring a topic that affects all of us: change. Whether it’s in our careers, relationships, or personal growth, navigating change can be challenging—but what if we approached it like an improv scene? I’m thrilled to have Kat Koppett with us today. Kat is an expert in applied improvisation where she helps individuals and organizations harness the power of improv to think on their feet, adapt, and thrive in uncertain situations. You’ll walk away with insights and practical tools to apply in both business and everyday life. You can reach Kat at: https...2025-02-1848 min
Redefining WisdomEp. 057 - Kat Koppett - The Art of Storytelling: Why Small Stories Have the Biggest ImpactKat Koppett is an expert in applied improv and storytelling. She is the Founder of Koppett, a consultancy that specializes in using improv and storytelling techniques to enhance individual and group performance. She is also an author and a facilitator.Most people believe that great stories need to be dramatic, but the truth is the smallest moments often make the biggest impact. In this episode, we dive into the art of storytelling and explore why relatable, everyday moments are more powerful than larger-than-life narratives.Kat reveals how storytelling shapes our perceptions, emotions, and even our...2025-02-0557 min
The Above The Bar PodcastHow Can Improv Training Help Improve Your Business | Kat Koppett
🌟 Tonight on The Above The Bar Podcast: Unleashing Creativity with Kat Koppett 🌟
Don’t miss tonight's live episode at 8 PM EST as we explore the transformative power of improv with Kat Koppett, an expert in improvisational theater and business performance enhancement. 🎭💼
Who? Kat Koppett, founder of Koppett and celebrated author, who has revolutionized how organizations think about teamwork, creativity, and communication.
What? Kat will share the secrets behind using improv and storytelling to foster innovation and effective leadership in any professional environment. Learn from her experiences working with giants like Meta and Apple and her innovative approaches out...2024-12-051h 03
Performance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeNavigating Life's Uncharted Skies with Jason O. HarrisJoin us on this transformative journey with Jason O. Harris, where we unravel the intricate layers that contribute to personal and professional success. Jason, a seasoned commercial and US Air Force pilot, delves into his past experiences, highlighting how critical moments from our upbringing to our careers shape our approach to change and success. Listen in as we discuss the value of planning for the future, tackling the fear of career transitions, and the actionable steps one can take when preparing for significant life shifts.We love to hear from you about the challenges and changes you...2024-01-1343 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeEmbracing Life's Prickly EdgesUnlock the secrets of thriving in the face of change with the guidance of Amy C. Horner, an executive and CPA whose innovative approach will change your perspective on personal and professional transitions. Our conversation with Amy unravels the art of "Hugging the Porcupine," a strategy for embracing the prickly edges of change without getting hurt. She illustrates her point with William Bucket's attitude from "Willy Wonka," showing us the power of positivity when the unexpected comes knocking. We peel back the psychological layers of change, from the fight or flight response to strategies that arm us against the...2024-01-0143 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeLeading from Self with Nitya ShekarJoin us on a compelling journey with leadership expert Nitya Shekar as we challenge conventional wisdom and redefine leadership. Nitya, a New York City-based professional with an eclectic background in law, executive coaching, and neuroscience research, adds an interesting dimension to our discussion with her insights on shaping values-driven company cultures. Together, we take on topics like career mobility, change agility, and the art of communication in leadership while lending a unique perspective to the discussion with the concept of a personal theme song.We love to hear from you about the challenges and changes you are...2023-12-1840 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeFrom Chaos to Harmony: Understanding and Navigating ConflictsAre you ready to turn your conflicts into stepping stones to success? This episode brings you deep into the intricacies of conflict, power dynamics, and transformation. We, your hosts, Kat Koppett and John Register, are on a mission to equip you with the tools you need to navigate conflict and emerge victorious. Unpacking the nature of conflict, we shed light on the different modes you can adopt to advocate for your needs, highlighting the essential role of honesty and openness in conflict resolution.We love to hear from you about the challenges and changes you are navigating...2023-12-0243 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeActivating Voice and Presence with Kimberly Mohne-HillIn a world where our voice is our most powerful tool, we sat down with Kimberly Mohne-Hill - a revered dialect coach, voice coach, and professor of voice and acting at Santa Clara University - to unravel the intricacies of our vocal cords. Kimberly's decades of experience have seen her master the art of voice and speech, a journey she so generously shares with us. Her tales from the trenches also highlight her work with the Northern California Innocence Project, where she helps exonerees and their families reclaim their voices in their fight for justice. We love t...2023-11-1854 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeMelissa Cohen: Fashioning a Fulfilling LifeHow does a fashion industry titan navigate the seismic shifts brought on by a global pandemic? What happens when she decides to reinvent herself amidst the chaos and uncertainty? Join us as we explore these pressing questions and more with our guest, Melissa Cohen. A fashion maven consultant and founding member of Chief, Melissa has journeyed from an entry-level assistant to brand vice president of iconic American fashion companies. Her journey is an inspiring testament to the power of resilience, passion, and vision, empowering women of all ages to believe they can do anything and be anything they want to...2023-11-0446 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeDr. Teresa Larson: The Power of Accepting HelpWhen John, a two-time Paralympic athlete and a combat army veteran, found himself struggling on a hike, he turned to Dr. Teresa Larson for help. The journey they embarked on, navigating the path of accepting help and embracing change, forms an inspiring and heartwarming narrative that we share in Episode 13 of the Performance Shift podcast.Dr. Larson, a force to be reckoned with in the realms of health care, fitness, and inclusive wellness, generously shares her experiences and insights, challenging our preconceptions about strength and vulnerability while taking us on a journey through her revolutionary work in...2023-10-2256 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeEpisode 12: John and Kat on Stories We Tell OurselvesIn Episode 12, John and Kat unlock the power of storytelling for personal change and leadership. We explore the role of narratives in navigating change phases, delve into leadership, vulnerability, and grit dynamics, and discover the impact of positive narratives on personal growth. You'll be intrigued by our discussion on how these self-created stories can be our stepping stones or stumbling blocks.Buckle up for a groundbreaking discussion that promises to reshape your perspective on personal change through storytelling!We love to hear from you about the challenges and changes you are navigating, or...2023-10-0954 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeEpisode 11: Kristen VanGinhoven - Arts, Activism and ActualizationKristen van Ginhoven is a leader, theatre director, arts educator, change-maker and social entrepreneur who works at the intersection of arts and activism. Since 2010, Kristen has been the co-founder and Producing Artistic Director of WAM, a theater company that creates theatre for gender equity and has a vision of theatre as philanthropy.Join us to talk about realizing a vision, knowing when it's time to move on, and the power of the arts for social good.We love to hear from you about the challenges and changes you are navigating, or any other thoughts, insights...2023-09-2254 min
The LDA Podcast: An Exploration of Evidence-Informed Approaches to Learning and DevelopmentThe ”Once Upon A Time” EpisodeIn this episode, we reboot the Truth in Learning podcast. After catching up with Will Thalheimer, and introducing Clark Quinn, we give a brief update on the direction of the show. We then explore the question, "What should every CEO know... care about... concerning learning and development?" In fact, Will will share some of his recent insights into the topic based on his new and upcoming book.
Folks can find Will at https://www.worklearning.com/.
Learn about his upcoming book here: https://www.ceosguide.net/
Then, Kat Koppett, renowned expert on applied improvisational...2023-09-081h 13
Practical Wisdom for Leaders with Scott J. Allen, Ph.D.Chris Esparza - Improvisation and LeadershipSend us a textChris Esparza is a full-time consultant, facilitator, and trainer. He serves as Vice President for Leadership & Culture at Koppett & Co. This consultancy uses improvisation and storytelling to enhance creativity, connection, leadership, and learning with organizations and companies of all sizes.Before joining the Koppett team, Chris spent 20 years in higher ed, rounding out that chapter as the Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Leadership Development at the University of Oregon’s School of Law. Throughout his career, Chris has infused an improvisational mindset in his work and approach to leadership dev...2023-08-1739 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeEpisode 10: John and Kat - Noticing TogetherFor the 10th episode (double digits!) John and Kat unpack the common themes they are noticing as they engage with clients from the high-tech world, to start-ups to non-profits.We discuss the difference between change that is chosen and change that is thrust upon us, the percentage of people who follow through on John's challenge , the power of accountability partners, the dark side of resilience, and making dreams come true (on a budget).And as always we play an improv game!We love to hear from you about the challenges and...2023-08-0143 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeCatherine Hover: Catalyzing CommunityThe creator of Palette, a social destination dedicated to supporting women in career and in life, joins us to talk about creating the community you most need, the power of mutual support, and how to get unstuck.Palette has quickly become a sought after haven for 250+ remote workers, solo entrepreneurs and working mothers who need a safe space, but more importantly a community to level up in their career and in their life with.https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinehover/https://www.palettecommunity.com/We love to hear from you about...2023-07-2451 min
HR in the CarHR in the Car - Episode 25: "Take Your Circus Bow"From teaching English as a Second Language, to living the theater/performer life, all the way to running her own successful pair of businesses in the heart of Schenectady. Kat Koppett joins HR in the Car to tell us about the history of their building (hint – it includes fire poles), and how we can all learn a lesson from the Circus Bow (celebrating failure) in work and home life. Bio Kat Koppett is the Eponymous Founder of Koppett, a consultancy specializing in the use of improv and storytelling techniques to enhance individual and group performance. She is the...2023-07-0323 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeDion Flynn: Truth and ComedyCited by Oprah Magazine as "one of our favorite creative thinkers," Dion Flynn is a comedy writer, speaker, U.S. Army veteran and Founder of The Improvisor’s Mindset a corporate training and consulting firm. On TV he's best known for playing Barack Obama (and 15 other characters) in over 100 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. You can find him today on HBO MAX in the hit gameshow Paid-Off.In this episode we'll discuss the roots of improvisation and how they live in our DNA, how we can learn to recognize and embrace our inner voices, and...2023-07-031h 03Performance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangePatty Cisneros Prevo: Tenacious!Join Kat and John for a conversation with Paralympian and DEI professional Patty Cisneros Prevo who is transforming children's literature and by extension our views of ourselves and our world. In 2019, Patty received the Lee & Low Books New Voices Award Honor for Tenacious: Fifteen Adventures Alongside Disabled Athletes. Tenacious highlights 15 disabled individuals and their major life and athletic accomplishments. Patty herself is a five-time National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) Champion, a three-time Paralympian, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist, and captain to Team USA. We discuss accomplishment, identity and what we all have to learn and un...2023-06-2633 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeSylvia Hoffman: Reaching for the ImpossibleSylvia Hoffman is not only a 2022 Olympic Bronze Medalist. She is also an engineer, a national, international and Olympic record holder, an undefeated national champion, and a keynote speaker.Join John, Kat and Sylvia for an exploration of: the mindset it takes to tackle "impossible" goals, how to embrace opportunity, even when it is unexpected or potentially undesiredthe shadow side of "talent"And of course, as always, we will improvise!To learn more about Sylvia go to: https://www.sylvia-hoffman.com/We love to hear from you about the cha...2023-06-1958 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeJohn Register: Hurdling AdversityIn this episode, John shares the details of his amazing personal journey and how he has mined it to create his five-step "Hurdling Adversity" framework: Rebuild, Redefine, Release, Rebirth and Resolve.He'll share stories of navigating mind-boggling change from his time in military service, training for the Olympics and competing in the Paralympics, navigating the loss of his leg, and catalyzing the founding of the Warrior Games.Also, Kat and John, as always, play an improv game:)We love to hear from you about t...2023-05-291h 11Performance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeCarrie Abbott: Faith and Frittles!In this delicious episode, John and Kat chat with candy-maker and entrepreneur and super optimist, Carrie Abbott, as she shares her journey navigating a series of life and business hurdles with optimism and faith.We discuss:How accepting unexpected offers grew into a new opportunitiesHow daring to be obvious can lead to the most creative ideasThe power of "just keep moving"And Carrie, John and Kat play the "Life is like a..." game.Carrie Abbott transformed a culinary mishap and turned it into a delectable national brand. Frittle, the fudge-like brittle, a s...2023-05-1843 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeGarrett Reisman Goes Above and Beyond!Garrett Reisman, Astronaut and Professor of Astronautical Engineering knows what he is talking about when he discusses embracing risk-taking, celebrating failure (even big flashy, public failure) and surprising even ourselves with what we can achieve. Join John and Kat for this truly "out of this world" conversation with Performance Shift's official first guest!And here's where to hear more about and from Garrett!https://garrettreisman.comhttps://2funnyastronauts.comWe love to hear from you about the challenges and changes you are navigating, or any other thoughts, insights, question or...2023-05-1252 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeEpisode 2: Success and SabotageIn this episode, John shares how he employed Kat's counter-intuitive "Sabotage" game, taught to her by the great Sivasailam Thiagarajan (Thiagi), to turn around the U.S. Olympic bobsled team. And we demonstrate how you can use the game yourself to uncover hidden opportunities to get out of your own way.Kat also walks us through the 6 core improv skills and we throw in some tips on improving a speaking business.Join us!As always we love to hear from you!John @johnregister.comkat@koppett.com2023-05-0140 minPerformance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating ChangeEpisode 1: Meet John and Kat!Are you ready to master the art of successfully navigating change?Welcome to "Performance Shift," the live-stream podcast exploring the strategies and mindsets behind top-performing individuals and teams and how they artfully manage life's twists and turns.In this week's inaugural episode, our hosts will share how they learned to appreciate the synergy in their experiences from worlds as varied as Paralympic competition to combat zones to improvisational theater stages to board rooms. And John will share his 5-Step Framework for moving from fear to freedom!Join us for our live stream every S...2023-04-2429 min
Dare to Be HumanSo Glad You're Here! with Chris EsparzaMeet Koppett's new VP of Leadership and Culture, Chris Esparza. Chris shares his dare to be human story on transition and the humanity of change and we discuss yes, and-ing with joy, the multidimensional power of play, and seeing the opportunities (or treasures) everywhere around us. Find Chris on LinkedIN (https://www.linkedin.com/in/unscriptedchris/) 2022-02-1459 minDare to Be HumanStart by Noticing with Kathleen McLeanEducator, social worker, writer, and President/CEO of the McLean Group, Kathleen McLean, joins us to discuss the power of noticing and asking “why” in the context of equity, power, and purpose. Kathleen’s work has been recognized as one of the top 50 influential people in the Capital Region and as a leader/ champion in DEI. Join us as she shares her dare to be human story about a transformational trip to Haiti, and leaves listeners with her rituals for self-care.Find out more about the McLean Group here Follow Kathleen on Twitter @mcleanconsultFollow the McLean...2022-01-171h 12
Dare to Be HumanJoyful Chaos with Teresa Robbins Dudeck and Caitlin McClureWe welcome back Theresa Robbins Dudeck and Caitlin McClure to discuss their new book The Applied Improvisation Mindset: Tools for Transforming Organizations and Communities. Theresa and Caitlin share their dare to be human stories on risk, safety, and leaning into discomfort to do the right thing. We explore the power of being average, doing the next thing, and how the applied improvisation community rose to the occasion at the onset of the pandemic and beyond.Check out the new book here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/applied-improvisation-mindset-9781350143609/Get the first book,2021-11-041h 09Dare to Be HumanTitle: 56. Joyful Chaos with Theresa Robbins Dudeck and Caitlin McClureWe welcome back Theresa Robbins Dudeck and Caitlin McClure to discuss their new book The Applied Improvisation Mindset: Tools for Transforming Organizations and Communities. Theresa and Caitlin share their dare to be human stories on risk, safety, and leaning into discomfort to do the right thing. We explore the power of being average, doing the next thing, and how the applied improvisation community rose to the occasion at the onset of the pandemic and beyond.Check out the new book here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/applied-improvisation-mindset-9781350143609/Get the first book, Applied Improvisation:Leading...2021-11-011h 19
Monster Baby: A Curious Romp Through the Worlds of Mindfulness and ImprovisationMonster Baby #97 Inner Voices (a conversation with Kat Koppett)
Making friends with inner voices can be fun—and healing.
For Monster Baby episode #97, Ted and Lisa are joined by fellow Applied Improvisor Kat Koppett to discuss (and play!) her mindfulness-and-improv-blending exercise, “Inside Out.” Lisa starts by asking about Kat’s inspiration for exploring mindfulness (2:12) and about how mindfulness has affected her life so far (8:01). Kat then describes the Inside Out exercise, a tool for increasing awareness of what’s happening with our inner voices (13:43). Ted, Lisa, and Kat together demonstrate the exercise with an improvised scene (21:28) and take some time to debrief the ways in which i...2021-10-301h 13Dare to Be HumanSplashing in a Teaspoon with Patti StilesWorld-renowned actor, teacher, improviser, director, author, and playwright Patti Stiles joins us to talk about her new book Improvise Freely: Throw Away the Rulebook and Unleash Your Creativity. Patti shares her dare to be human story as we discuss courage and fear, creating spaces for creativity to thrive, the great "yes, and" debate, unlearning what we've learned, and "that impro moment."Check out Improvise Freely and learn more about Patti here. 2021-10-051h 19Dare to Be HumanBecoming Unlonely with Jeff Katzman M.D. and Dan O'ConnorAuthors of Life Unscripted: Using Improv Principles to Get Unstuck, Boost Confidence, and Transform Your Life and DTBH veterans, Jeff Katzman M.D. and Dan O'Connor join us to discuss their new book Ensemble!: Using the Power of Improv and Play to Forge Connections in a Lonely World. Jeff and Dan share their dare to be human stories of leadership through letting go and being humbled by a mistake while avoiding the all too familiar shame spiral. We discuss ensemble as a verb, how trust and communication save lives, the impact of systems on ensemble, the dangers of being...2021-09-201h 07Dare to Be HumanBut One Day, We Taught All Our Children Theatre...with Kenn AdamsWhat do two classic improv performance games (Sit, Stand, Kneel and Family Dinner) and the world-famous Story Spine have in common? Kenn Adams! Our guest this week is the Artistic Director of Synergy Theater, the author of the book How to Improvise a Full-Length Play; The Art of Spontaneous Theater, and longtime pal, Kenn Adams.We explore Kenn's career so far, spanning 30-years of performing, directing, and teaching- its rocky start, his lucky break, and his inspiring navigation of live theatre in virtual space. You'll want to hear the whole story!Check out Synergy Theater...2021-08-111h 03Dare to Be HumanSeeing What You Saw for the First Time: Corey Rosen on choices, resiliency, and POVCorey Rosen, author of Your Story, Well Told joins Kat and Livia. As much of the USA transitions out of pandemic mode, life becomes all about adapting to the "new normal." From his unique perspective as an improviser and story coach, Corey supplies some valuable techniques for those times when we need some fresh new ideas--now. Corey coaches people to find the essence of their personal stories, sometimes with radical edits. This bold approach often yields unexpected learning, surprising strategies, and valuable insights. If that weren't enough, here's a bonus: perhaps you've been thinkin...2021-07-071h 00Dare to Be HumanWhat is Positive Psychology Anyway? with Shannon PollyIf the words "positive psychology" make you think of a mashup of canned affirmations and shallow optimism, you aren't alone. But in this episode, Shannon Polly, coach, theatre person, trainer, facilitator, and one of the first 100 people to get a Masters in Positive Psychology, sets the record straight. From a tale of a taping with Paula Poundstone to one about the death of a beloved hamster, Shannon offers stories and highly useful insights about finding opportunity in failure, recognizing our own real strengths, and maximizing success. After you listen, you'll probably want to order Character S...2021-05-231h 04Dare to Be Human50th Episode! Timey-Wimey; Spacey-Wacey: Michael Burns and Mopco's 25th AnniversaryMichael Burns is Kat's husband and the Artistic Director of our improvisational theatre company, The Mop & Bucket Co (mopco.org). Michael joins Kat and Livia to celebrate our 50th episode AND the 25th anniversary season of the Mop & Bucket Company. (but is it really? All is revealed in the podcast!) Among other things, we talk about what cargo cults have to do with artistic development and human learning. We also talk about the last 14 months in hiatus from in-person performance, the Zoomprov shows (live.mopco.org ) that have happened during that time, and the cautious reopening of The...2021-05-091h 04Dare to Be HumanImprov Nerdology with Joe BillSelf-described improv nerd (and renowned improv performer and teacher) Joe Bill talks shop with Kat and Livia. Be forewarned, there's a fair amount of inside baseball in this one--if you aren't an improviser you may scratch your head at some of the references to names or exercises, but these few improv-specific moments keep company with an abundance of stories, revelations, laughter, and a celebration of tears. An hour solidly packed with insight about our favorite topic: daring to be human. You can learn more about Joe on facebook at his page Joe Bill teaches2021-04-121h 10Dare to Be HumanMake Another Damn Pie! Dr. Cara OcobockCan you find a living point of connection between powerlifting, Laplandic reindeer herding, biology and anthropology, damaging gender stereotypes in the sports world, and improv? We can! Her name is Cara Ocobock. Dr. Ocobock is the Director of the Human Energetics Laboratory at Notre Dame University. Her research program integrates human biology and anthropology. In this episode, Cara, Kat, and Livia weigh in on some hefty topics, including toxic masculinity and damaging fictions about gender, particularly as they impact the sports world. We also hear about her research (with help from our colleagues at The Mopco Improv T...2021-03-291h 12Dare to Be HumanHow Much is Too Much? Tom Floyd on Transparency, Feedback and SushiTom Floyd's company, Flouracity, creates " space for managers, leaders and other mammals to grow." He comes to this venture after years inside a number of large and wildly successful companies, the most recent, a fast-paced, fast-growth environment where radical prioritization and charting one's own course is imperative.Tom shares the story of his shock when he learned what his manager was really thinking. Relating to the learning from this story of unvarnished communication, Tom describes his love of feedback and more. This is a discussion of awareness and growth, pubic persona vs. private reality, what we mean b...2021-03-1840 minDare to Be HumanHow Much is Too Much? Tom Floyd on Transparency, Feedback and SushiTom Floyd's company, Flouracity, creates " space for managers, leaders and other mammals to grow." He comes to this venture after years inside a number of large and wildly successful companies, the most recent, a fast-paced, fast-growth environment where radical prioritization and charting one's own course is imperative. Tom shares the story of his shock when he learned what his manager was really thinking. Relating to the learning from this story of unvarnished communication, Tom describes his love of feedback and more. This is a discussion of awareness and growth, pubic persona vs. private reality, what we...2021-03-0742 minDare to Be HumanJust When You Think You Know Yourself: A conversation with Dr. Charles SilbersteinCharles Silberstein is an esteemed psychiatrist, author, researcher, and fascinating, tireless observer of humanity, his own and others’. He also happens to be Kat's cousin! In this conversation, Charles and Kat discuss awakening to their own privilege, how awareness of conscious and unconscious bias is a never-ending journey, therapy as a form of storytelling, and ways that we humans take care of ourselves in trying times. Read Charles's monthly column On My Mind for the Martha's Vineyard Times!2021-02-2255 min
Failing BetterYay, You Failed! Celebrating Failure with Kat Koppett "Yippee!" is probably the last thing you want to yell when you encounter failure. Your exclamations are probably more of the four letter variety. But Kat Koppett wants you to at consider celebrating failure and on this first episode of Failing Better, she'll tell us why. Koppett is a trainer, facilitator, improvisor, applied improv expert and eponymous founder of Koppett, where she's traveled the world teaching improv and creativity to companies like Facebook, Apple and JPMorgan Chase. She's also one of the forces behind the MopCo Improv Theater, a leading force in the Upstate New York improv scene...2021-02-1146 minDare to Be HumanThe Maybe Farmer in the Pandemic World: A conversation with Pam VictorOur friend Pam Victor, a teacher, writer, entrepreneur (and of course, improvisor) talks with Kat and Livia about her 30 Day Happiness Experiment- and lots of other things. This far-ranging conversation touches on unexpected results, joy, awareness, self-help, helping others, privilege, social justice, and much more. It might sound like a lot, but like a good improv show, the topics all come together in a fascinating exploration of Pam's particular version of being human. Learn more about Happier Valley Comedy and The Happiness Experiment Check out Pam's online Learning Through Laughter professional development program Follow Pam on...2021-02-021h 03Dare to Be HumanMolecules and Meanings: Different Rules Apply. Paul Z. JacksonPaul Z. Jackson, a founder of the Applied Improv Network, is a journalist, a philosopher, and of course an improviser who came to improv from the from the "offstage world." Paul joins Kat and Livia to unpack some ongoing conversations. Among other things, they discuss learning from success, improvisation as an evaluative exercise, art vs. engineering, and the field of applied improvisation at a tipping point in the world. A conversation with Paul is usually interesting, never dull, often provocative, and sometimes inspiring. This one does not disappoint! By the way, Here's a link to Paul...2021-01-1457 minDare to Be HumanKevin Eikenberry: Leadership Made Simple"Thoughts can be fuzzy; words are clear." Some welcome clarity on the qualities of effective leadership with our friend Kevin Eikenberry, a noted expert and innovator in the field of leadership. 2020-12-2147 minDare to Be HumanJeanne Lambin and the Ordinary ExtraordinaryOn Nov. 4th, Kat and Livia, no doubt sleep deprived but happy, had a fascinating conversation with Jeanne Lambin, a creator of many experiences for all kinds of folks. A quiet conversation containing some quiet revelations. 2020-11-1759 minDare to Be HumanOld Dogs, New LearningKat and Livia discuss, among other things, learning, play, and the mistaken use of shame in education. WIth a brief cameo appearance by Riggie, Cinnamon, and Chester, the dogs (of varying ages.) 2020-08-271h 02
Creativity Conversations with Nina LockwoodKat Koppett: Using Improv Techniques for a Great LifeCreativity Conversations with Kat Koppett. Kat's background in theatre lends itself beautifully to her coaching work.
In this conversation, Kat reminds us of the fact that we all make performance choices daily, whether it's on a conscious or unconsciously. Kat show us how improv and story can be used to ground us in an understanding of both business goals and psychology because these are profoundly rich tools for enhancing the awareness, range and impact of our choices.
To find out more about Kat, visit her website at www.koppett.com.
2020-08-121h 00Dare to Be HumanJeff Mitchell and Kat Koppett facilitate each other!Kat talks about facilitation with Jeff Mitchell, President of Proteus International. Proteus and Koppett partner on a number of projects, including a series of programs to develop, coach and measure Facilitation Excellence.Through this lens, Kat and Jeff and Livia muse on collaboration, what's different and what's not at this strange time, and how great facilitation might just be the key to saving the world! (Oh, and check out our new logo!)2020-07-1656 min
Speak Up StorytellingKat Koppett: "Prayers for Aslan"On episode #98 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling! In our follow up segment, we share emails from listeners and discuss our first Speak Up virtual show. We also discuss upcoming shows and workshops, all online! STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020 July 11: Solo show at MOPCO Improv Theater (7:30 PM) (virtual) October 17: Speak Up at The Wadsworth Atheneum, Hartford CT STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020 July 11: Advanced storytelling workshop in partnership with MOPCO Improv Theater (11:00-6:00 PM) (virtual) In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about a moment that happened just prior to th...2020-06-261h 29Dare to Be HumanMorgan Heyward Returns: Shining Brighter than EverMorgan Heyward of Illuminate Theatre returns to update us on her work, her thoughts on the state of the arts at this moment in our national consciousness, and some exciting new opportunities she has coming up. Check out our first DTBH follow-up episode!https://www.facebook.com/IlluminateTheatre518https://teespring.com/illuminatetheatremerch?pid=2&fbclid=IwAR2z-8ZTBTAgYElclKnwPRC2vxdQGihqGwc4_Me-naMXmP12dc7B5P5qBo0&cid=23972020-06-251h 22Dare to Be HumanThe Actor's NightmareBroadway performer Adam Grupper recounts the tale of his real-life actor's nightmare, which happened to take place on the night of his Broadway debut in a starring role. In this conversation Adam and Kat talk about dedication, process over product, and the critical importance of the improv precept "make your partner look good." A fascinating hour with a kind, humble, and super talented master of his trade. 2020-05-261h 09Dare to Be HumanThis New Performance with Kristen van GinhovenWAM Theatre is a professional theatre company based in Berkshire County, MA, USA, that operates at the intersection of arts and activism. WAM creates theatre for gender equity and has a vision of theatre as philanthropy. The founding artistic director of WAM, Kristen van Ginhoven, talked to us about the new performance called for in this unique time, intersectional feminism, performance, and vulnerability. A fascinating conversation with a powerful and innovative arts leader. 2020-04-2353 minDare to Be HumanWhere Do You Store Your Power? with Dion FlynnOur first-ever repeat guest, Renaissance man DIon Flynn talks about Grandma's purse, knowing everything will be OK, and the perception of our own personal power in a complicated time. Join us as we traverse the Escher-like corridors of a wonderful mind. 2020-04-0653 minDare to Be HumanPutting Our Money Where Our Mouths Are: Improv in a Time of CrisisKat and Alex discuss improvising in a time of crisis. If we weren't on the mark about us all improvising all the time, we certainly are now. Cancellations. New rules and guidelines. The ways things were can't be, so how do we keep moving? We discuss some basic improv principles that you may find helpful as you navigate and adjust to challenges, disruptions, and blocks in the era of Covid-19. Be sure to share this episode with a friend and to share your own Dare to be Human stories with us! ________________________________________________________...2020-03-2044 minDare to Be Human"Hollow Manners" - A DTBH Story with Kat and AlexKat and Alex discuss a Dare to Be Human Story Alex shares about bumping into someone at a concert. They discuss awareness, our internal stories, the differences that emerge in "shared" experiences, and how first reactions can be the wrong ones. Be sure to share this episode with a friend and to share your own Dare to be Human stories with us! ________________________________________________________* Submit a story for DTBH's Live Storytelling Show *Send us your advice from kids for our collaborative project, questions, comments, episode ideas or your very own Dare t...2020-03-0921 minDare to Be Human"Hunting for Good Gatherings" with Lindsey CaplanKat and Alex talk with Lindsey Caplan about her work on helping us to gather more effectively. We discuss Lindsey's journey discovering that she needed to do this work and begin to turn it into a book. She shares some insights into why gatherings can feel like a let down to those gathered and shares some tips to gatherers about how to be more intentional when you organize a gathering (or if you even need one). Also, smelling people? Lindsey CaplanLindsey Caplan has been gathering people for over 15 years — first to entertain, as...2020-02-171h 09Dare to Be HumanMind the Mindfulness GapsKat and Alex discuss mindfulness, what it is and some methods toward being more mindful. Alex shares a DTBH story about trying to be a better hitter in baseball to get things rolling as we pull at the threads of a very tangled web of topics. We discuss how we can approach mindfulness, conscious and unconscious competence, self-fulfilling prophecies and naming the discomfort in moments of growth. Links:Your Basal Ganglia is Your FriendInfrastructure mattersInternal Family Systems TherapyCheck out David's website https://www.bepresentdiscoverjoy.com/2020-02-0455 minDare to Be Human"Where Habit and Authenticity Collide"Kat and Alex talk about the differences between something that is habitual and something that is truly authentic to you. How can we tell the difference? Where do these unhelpful habits come from? How can we make sure our habits are aligned with our intentions and reflect or desires? With a few stories and discussion, Kat and Alex explore how we can strive to be more aware and able to change our habitual performance. Links:Good Habits, Bad Habits: The Science of Making Positive Changes That StickHidden Brain - Creatures of Habit 2020-01-141h 00Dare to Be Human"What Does the Scene Need?" with Brenny RabineKat and Alex chat with their friend and colleague Brenny Rabine. The coach, facilitator, and actor shares a story about being told about your inner strength and how we can approach helping to grow strength in others. We discuss performing, deciding to make the career you want to have against expectations, and some of the realities of being a working actor. Brenny Rabine Brenny Rabine combines over 30 years of theater experience with nearly two decades of teaching, facilitation, and training. Brenny is a member of the Dramatists Guild, Inc. As a pla...2019-12-161h 04Dare to Be Human"Safety and Social Engineering in Games" with Jason MorningstarKat and Alex talk with game designer Jason Morningstar about "meta techniques" to create games where we can play safely, bringing FIASCO to the Mopco Improv Theatre, the brilliance of the group, social engineering through games, and why his work his like making a fine table leg. Support Jason and Bully Pulpit Games on Patreon! Jason MorningstarJason Morningstar is a game designer who lives in Durham, North Carolina, USA. Best known for his game Fiasco, which earned him his second Diana Jones Award for Gaming Excellence, Jason’s design credits include Night Witches, Gho...2019-11-1958 minDare to Be HumanDaring to be Human @ WeddingsOur very own Livia is now Livia Armstrong Walker! It got us thinking about weddings and what a complex and intense moment they can be in our lives. So we gathered the team together to share some stories dive deeper in! Send us your advice from kids for our collaborative project, questions, comments, episode ideas or your very own Dare to be Human stories to hello@daretobehumanpodcast.com, join the conversation on our Facebook or leave us a message at 518-212-7886! We record at The Mopco Improv Theatre in Schenectady, NY where you can c...2019-11-051h 18
Dare to Be Human"Listening, Laughing and the Zombie Apocalypse" with Karen Koppett and Jason CabassiAlex and Kat talk to the hosts of The Walking Dead 'Cast Jason Cabassi and Karen Koppett about podcasting, dealing with negativity, creating with your friends, and being a zombie. Jason and Karen had the #1 podcast about the Walking Dead during the peak of its popularity. They continue to create pop-culture based shows together and share with us their insight and experience. The Walking Dead ‘Cast Follow Podastica on Twitter Jason and Karen are Making Podcasts Karen KoppettKaren Koppett is a profes...2019-10-221h 06Dare to Be Human"Living a Dream I Never Knew I Had" with Gabe MercadoKat and Livia talk with Gabe Mercado to take a chance to explore parenthood and being singleparent, finding support from family and friends in times of upheaval, and how our cultures can try to define how we are meant to behave. After a short LIVE episode at the Applied Improv Network (AIN) conference, we got Gabe back on the podcast to dive into his DTBH story even more deeply. Follow GabeTwitterInstagramLinksThird World ImprovBIOGabe is a single d...2019-10-0749 minDare to Be Human"Hooked on Collaboration" with Gary HirschKat and Alex talk with Gary Hirsch about creating the space for collaboration, "no-think time", lessons learned from his work with Marc Craig in the Leake Street Tunnel and letting others steal your ideas. Follow GaryFacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramLinksBotjoyLeake Street Botjoy Marc CraigCarolyn McKnight - "To ____ in a way that ______, so that ______" BIOGary is the co-founder of On Your Feet an early pioneer in the emerging field of Applied Improvisation helping...2019-09-231h 06Dare to Be Human"Mind Ghosts in the Bardo" with Dion FlynnOn this episode of DTBH Michael and Alex speak with Dion Flynn about the bardo and other spaces between spaces, fear of tiny holes, examining ambiguity in art and the power of being a performer (shaman). Follow Dion FacebookTwitter Tumbler InstagramBIO Cited by Oprah Magazine as “one of our favorite creative thinkers…” NYU Tisch School of the Arts Grad, comedian, and Army veteran Dion Flynn is best known as Barack Obama (and other characters) with over 100 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon...2019-09-091h 04Dare to Be Human"Eat and Living Together" with Ric OrlandoOn this episode of Dare to Be Human, Mary and Michael talk to Ric Orlando about being a passionate member of humanity, the fundamental tactile experience of being human, our fear of food and its potential to bridge us together, failure and learning to lose. BIO A renowned cook, restaurateur, writer and activist with a rock-and-roll pedigree, showman’s personality and proven dedication to the people, places and products of the Hudson Valley, Chef Ric Orlando has become a leading culinary spokesman and top draw for events, fundraisers and festivals in Upstate New York...2019-08-2658 minDare to Be Human"Resilience and Rebellion" with Taína AsiliOn this episode, Kat and Mary talk with Taína Asili a NY-based Peurto Rican singer, songwriter, bandleader, and activist. They discuss reclaiming your humanity in the face of inhumanity through acts of resistance and art, Taína's travels through Peurto Rico after the devastation of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, how to discover your own bravery and raising kids as an act of rebellion. Taína Asili is a New York based Puerto Rican singer, filmmaker and activist carrying on the tradition of her ancestors, fusing past and present struggles into one soulful and defiant voice. Her mus...2019-08-1253 minDare to Be Human"Singing with Your Own Voice" - Moriah FormicaKat and Alex talk with Moriah Formica about finding strength in faith, forging your own path, the amazing people she met on The Voice and bringing her genuine voice to her art. We talk a lot about breaking out of the mold and not letting certain parts of yourself define your entire being. A wonderful conversation with a lot of ground covered in just a little time! Moriah is a local to the Capital Region here in New York and studied at Clifton Park's Modern Day Music. We caught Moriah shortly before she and another Shaker High...2019-07-2929 minDare to Be HumanDaring to be Human @ WorkLivia, Michael, Kat and Alex discuss Daring to be Human at work after sharing some stories from their experience in the workplace. From management, status, interviews and sharing emotions, we explore a lot of topics around being human at work! Special thanks to listener Mike Ganino for the suggestion for an episode! It was a lot of fun to do and we hope you enjoy! Send us your questions, comments, episode ideas or your very own Dare to be Human stories to hello@daretobehumanpodcast.com, join the conversation on our Facebook or leave...2019-07-151h 10Dare to Be Human"Over the Next Hurdle" with John RegisterKat and Alex talk with John Register about how to stay present rather than "chippy", how to keep evolving into the next steps into your journey, meeting President Obama, listening for "echoes" in your life and so, so much more. BIO Athletics have been Register’s passion since he began swimming competitively at the Oak Park, Ill., YMCA. He then moved on to baseball and football. He eventually started competing in track and field, the sport that earned him a scholarship to the University of Arkansas. There he became a four-time All-American – once in th...2019-07-011h 24Dare to Be Human"Lifting Up Other Voices" with Morgan Heyward of Illuminate TheatreIn this episode of Dare to be Human we talk with Morgan Heyward who created Illuminate Theater, a monthly event that spotlights performers of color in the Capital District. After writing and performing her senior show at Russel Sage, DEAR LIL. Exploring the personal challenges she had faced being a black student, Morgan has set her post-graduation sights on becoming a trailblazer in the Capital community, creating a platform where other people of color can share their stories. We discuss the creation of Morgan's senior show, the importance of and the lasting impact of a...2019-06-1758 min