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How Improv Unlocks Leadership and Team Creativity in Business
Manage episode 489244602 series 3662484
On today’s episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, we dove into the power of improv with Andrew Davies. We explored how improvisational comedy isn’t just for extroverts—it’s a tool anyone can use to spark creativity, build stronger teams, and become a better leader. Andrew shared practical ways to energize meetings, why intentional play drives connection, and how modeling participation from the top transforms company culture. If you’re looking to break out of the burnout cycle, boost retention, or simply make work more meaningful, this episode’s for you. Let’s lead with more creativity, courage, and collaboration!
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Download your free episode guide here!
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00:00 "The Power of Improvisational Comedy"
04:30 Overcoming Fear of New Experiences
09:14 Embracing Play and Low-Stakes Failure
12:29 Leadership Through Improv Workshops
15:19 Rethinking Time: Beyond Money Trade
18:01 "Listening Skills in Improvisation"
23:26 Intentional Team Dynamics in Meetings
26:10 "Improv Games for Creative Meetings"
29:45 Starting Meetings on a Positive Note
32:16 "Participation in Virtual Meetings"
36:25 Focus on Positivity, Not Problems
39:39 Jewish Values Through Improv Comedy
43:34 Enhancing Employee Retention and Growth
47:40 Onboarding Through Value-Based Games
50:37 Advice for Educational Leaders
53:11 Google Docs: Collaborative Game-Changer
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Here are three powerful takeaways for your leadership toolkit:
➡️ Improv isn’t just for extroverts or comedians. It’s about listening—in fact, introverts often excel because they pick up on details and really hear what’s being said. Great improv (and leadership!) starts with deep listening.
➡️ Meetings should be energizing, not draining. Andrew shared the ABCs of better meetings:
Affective (how do you want people to feel?)
Behavioral (how do you want them to act?)
Cognitive (what should they know or take away?)
A touch of intentional play or a quick improv game can dramatically shift energy and engagement.
➡️ Model the behavior you want to see. Whether you’re a CEO joining team-building exercises or a parent showing kindness, leadership is about actions, not just words. If you want your team to grow and participate, jump in and play alongside them.
There’s so much potential when we make room for courage, creativity, and connection at work. If you want inspiration for your next team meeting or retreat, give this episode a listen!
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Links
Andrew's Website
Book Recommendation
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