Ep 66 - Improv Secrets to Make You a Better Manager with Joel Zeff

How can the principles of improvisational comedy help you become a more effective manager? In this episode, Cindi Baldi is joined by keynote speaker and improv humorist Joel Zeff to explore how spontaneity, presence, and play fuel better leadership and teams.

Joel explains how improv principles like saying “yes, and” can create more open, collaborative workplace cultures. He explores the role of fun in building trust and engagement and offers a fresh take on what it means to lead with intention. In addition, Joel shares insights from his book Make the Right Choice, where he emphasizes how everyday decisions shape how we lead, communicate, and inspire those around us.

Whether you're looking to bring more energy to your team or find a new gear personally, this episode will help you lead with more confidence, connection, and purpose.

 

Want a free chapter of Joel’s book, Make the Right Choice?

Sign up for his emails here, then reply to the welcome email and mention you heard him on the Management Muse podcast. He’ll send you a chapter for free.

 

Episode Highlights:

• How improv tools can build stronger team dynamics
• Why fun isn’t frivolous when it comes to performance and morale
• What comedians can teach managers
• The connection between trust, risk-taking, and innovation
• How to lead with presence, positivity, and purpose
• Small choices leaders make to create a more connected workplace

 

Guest Bio:

Joel Zeff is a keynote speaker, work culture expert, and improvisational humorist who helps teams and leaders bring more energy, creativity, and connection to their work. With over 25 years of experience and 2,500 events under his belt, Joel has worked with companies like Wells Fargo, Samsung, and KPMG to create more collaborative and people-centered cultures.

Joel is the author of Make the Right Choice, a book that explores how everyday decisions impact our performance, build trust, and shape our leadership. Through sharp insights and good humor, Joel reminds us that great leadership often starts with small choices, a little fun, and a willingness to say “yes, and.”

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/

Website: https://www.joelzeff.com/

 

Watch This Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tLoVm7ulm8Y

 

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