Best Applied Improvisation Podcasts (2025)

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Ep173 From Demo to Radio - Inside Music Production with Jason Wyatt Kuhn 1:21:20

5d ago1:21:20

1:21:20

In episode 173 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I sit down with Nashville music producer Jason Wyatt Kuhn to talk about the art of recording and producing music. Jason shares his journey from singer and songwriter to becoming a sought-after producer helping both aspiring artists and hobbyist songwriters bring their music to life. We discuss what…

1
Jacob Heiss, PhD--Valiant Cancer Researcher, Improviser and Producer! 28:07

7d ago28:07

28:07

Jacob Heiss recently graduated with his PhD in biomedical engineering from The University of Akron. He started doing comedy three years ago when he first took an improv class at Imposters Theater in Cleveland and continues to do improv with his group Stage Against the Machine. We talked about discoveries in both improv and cancer research and his j…

1
S2 Ep3: Lan Li - on body maps, meridians, and improvisation 36:26

9d ago36:26

36:26

In this episode, Richard and Mia are joined by Lan Li, professor of the history of medicine at Johns Hopkins University and director of the Online Program in the History of Medicine, to talk about her new book, Body Maps: Improvising Meridians and Nerves in Global Chinese Medicine. Works referenced in the episode: Sean Hsiang-lin Lei, Neither Donke…

1
029 - Say "Yes, And!" to the Skill of Humor with Andrew Tarvin 55:37

9d ago55:37

55:37

In this episode, I talk with Andrew Tarvin, a longtime friend and fellow improv enthusiast who has built a fascinating career at the intersection of humor and engineering. Andrew shares his journey from computer science to comedy, what it really means to be a “Humor Engineer,” and how he helps individuals and organizations use humor more intentiona…

1
Brewing Up Improv, Business, and Big Dreams with Tony DeRosa 1:54:23

11d ago1:54:23

1:54:23

Today on Improvly Speaking, we hear from Tony DeRosa, owner and co-founder of hear.say brewing + theater, a new improv theater and brewery in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Tony blends his love of improv with beer, business, and community building, and is sharing it all on today’s episode. Tony's story is a great example of what can happen when you follow yo…

1
George Awad--Co-producer of the Asheville Improv Festival!! 26:51

15d ago26:51

26:51

As everyone knows, last fall the Western North Carolina region suffered the most devastating flooding in a century. The beautiful place we call home was forever scarred and changed. But true to form, this region had each other’s backs and staged quite an incredible comeback. While some areas are still damaged, we by all means welcome the world back…

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Kay Smith-Blum--Fashionista, Author and Expert Marketer!! 31:29

23d ago31:29

31:29

Kay Smith-Blum, a former fashionista and Seattle School Board President, spends her days debunking the tropes of the mid-20th-century history. An odd dream and the recent upheaval over leaking radioactive waste tanks at the Hanford Nuclear site compelled her to write, TANGLES, named 2024 Book of the Year by the Literary Global Book Awards and Best …

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S2 Ep2: Julia Cummiskey - on virus research in Uganda 40:46

23d ago40:46

40:46

In this episode, Richard and Mia talk to Julia Cummiskey, a professor of the history of medicine right here at Johns Hopkins University. She chats with us about her new book, Virus Research in 20th-Century Uganda: Between Local and Global. For more about the Uganda Virus Research Institute, visit https://www.uvri.go.ug/ For more about the Rakai Hea…

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028 - Say “Yes, And!” to Creating the Impossible with Melissa Dinwiddie 55:01

23d ago55:01

55:01

In this episode of Yes, And with Avish Parashar, I sit down with creativity expert Melissa Dinwiddie. Melissa shares her journey from a Juilliard-trained dancer to a professional artist and creativity instigator. She introduces us to her Create the Impossible framework, which helps individuals and teams harness the power of play, take risks, and le…

1
How to Strengthen, Support, and Fall in Love with Your Voice with Susan Murphy 2:01:08

26d ago2:01:08

2:01:08

What do you think of your voice? If your answer is anything uncertain or negative, you’re definitely not alone. But as this week’s guest on Improvly Speaking proves, your voice isn’t something to cringe about — it’s something you can strengthen, support, and maybe even start to love. Today, we hear from Emmy-winning journalist and broadcast voice c…

1
Marcia Peck--Celebrated Author and Cellist!! 32:51

1M ago32:51

32:51

Marcia Peck was inspired by the rhythms and sounds of music echoed in language; her debut novel, Water Music: A Cape Cod Story, combines all of her passions – music, writing, and Cape Cod.The book has received critical acclaim and has received many book awards, including Literary Titan Gold, National Indie Excellence Award, New England Book Festiva…

1
S2 Ep1: Bharat Venkat (Colloquium Mini Episode) - on thermal inequality 17:37

1M ago17:37

17:37

In this mini episode, Richard and Mia talk to Bharat Venkat, a professor of anthropology at UCLA, about the research he presented at the Johns Hopkins Program in the History of Science, Medicine & Technology's colloquium series and his upcoming book project, "Swelter: A History of Our Bodies in a Warming World." Related links for Bharat's work: UCL…

1
027 - Say “Yes, And!” to Being SO Productive with Sarah Ohanesian 48:26

1M ago48:26

48:26

In this episode, I chat with Sarah Ohanesian, a productivity expert and the founder of SO Productive. Sarah dives into the concept of purpose-driven productivity, helping us rethink how we manage our time and energy in both our personal and professional lives. She also shares her work around neurodiversity, a topic that’s been gaining much-needed a…

1
Exploring Ecstatic Dance, Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, and Mindfulness with Dr. Bob Swoap 1:53:13

1M ago1:53:13

1:53:13

Have you ever felt completely lost in the rhythm of music, moving without thinking, and experiencing pure joy? That’s the essence of ecstatic dance – a practice that blends movement, community, and self-expression. In this episode of Improvly Speaking, we hear from Dr. Bob Swoap, Professor of Psychology and Expressive Arts Therapy at Warren Wilson …

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Ep172 Q&A playing style - physical limitations - key changes - bar chord techniques - music theory exercises - slowing down music 1:04:30

1M ago1:04:30

1:04:30

In episode 172 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions about playing styles, overcoming physical limitations, key changes in songs, barre chord techniques, music theory exercises, slowing down music, and more. Riff Rockers Zoom class details: https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/riff-rockers-zoom-class/ Enroll in a free video c…

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S2: "For the Medical Record" Season 2 Trailer 2:58

1M ago2:58

2:58

We are SO back!! After a brief hiatus, For the Medical Record is back with new hosts, Richard Del Rio and Mia Levenson. For the Medical Record is a Podcast from Johns Hopkins University's Center for Medical Humanities and Social Medicine, hosted by Research Associated Richard Del Rio and Postdoctoral Fellow Mia Levenson. First episode drops on Marc…

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026 - Say "Yes, And!" to Creating a Tip Jar Culture with Greg Offner 51:40

2M ago51:40

51:40

In this episode of Yes, And with Avish Parashar, I sit down with Greg Offner, a former dueling piano performer turned keynote speaker, to talk about his unique approach to leadership, employee engagement, and preventing burnout. Greg’s philosophy, highlighted in his book The Tip Jar Culture, draws from his background in music to create an experienc…

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The Value of a Bold Choice: Jesse Greenfield on Starting the Kaleidoscope Training Center 1:35:29

2M ago1:35:29

1:35:29

Jesse Greenfield first appeared on the show nearly a year ago, and so much has changed since then! In this episode of Improvly Speaking, we catch up on their incredible journey, including the launch of their own business, Kaleidoscope Training Center, and our experience facilitating a 2-day Intensive Training Session at the 2024 Art and Science of …

1
Kat Koppett--Applied Improvisation CEO and Performer!! 32:08

2M ago32:08

32:08

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 Tra…

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025 - Say “Yes, And!” to Market Eminence with David Newman 1:00:02

2M ago1:00:02

1:00:02

What if the difference between being a ‘best-kept secret’ and becoming a go-to authority in your industry came down to just three things? In this episode of Yes, And with Avish Parashar, I sit down with David Newman, marketing expert, speaker, and author of Do It! Marketing, Do It! Speaking, and Do It! Selling. David is the founder of Do It! Market…

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Sydney Lea--Author of North Country Maine and Poet Laureate!! 31:27

2M ago31:27

31:27

Sydney Lea was named Vermont’s Poet Laureate and received the Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, his state’s highest artistic distinction. He has had 25 books published in a celebrated literary arts career. His latest book, Now Look (Down East Books/Roman Littlefield), explores the ravages of addiction and a dying north country culture in…

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The Power of Playback Theatre to Bring People Together with Ferran Luengo 1:51:44

2M ago1:51:44

1:51:44

Ferran Luengo is a Spanish actor, improviser and applied theatre facilitator based in London. He has his postgraduate on theatre in education and Applied theatre master degree. Ferran is passionate about playback theatre, a community oriented improv art form that he has been practicing since 2013. He’s brought playback theatre workshops around seve…

1
Ep171 Q&A Practice Plan-Joe-Bonamassa Rhythm-Take On Me Chords-Numbering Modes-G Chord Fingerings-Best Practice Amp 1:00:53

2M ago1:00:53

1:00:53

In episode 171 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions on a variety of guitar topics, including: 🎸 Assessing your guitar practice plan🎸 Joe Bonamassa’s rhythm guitar playing 🎸 Breaking down the key to "Take on Me" by A-ha 🎸 Understanding mode numbering 🎸 Different ways to finger a G chord and which one is best for you 🎸 Choo…

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024 - Say “Yes, And!” to Being Happy, Healthy, and Present with Elaine Pasqua 49:52

3M ago49:52

49:52

What does it take to create a culture of wellness in our workplaces and our lives? And how do we overcome the 'yes, but' resistance when it comes to making better choices? In this episode, I sit down with the amazing Elaine Pasqua, a speaker who has spent the last 30 years working with universities, corporations, and professional sports teams on we…

1
Harker Jones--Author of Comedy, Horror and Children's Novels!! 34:06

3M ago34:06

34:06

Harker Jones grew up on a dirt road in Michigan in a town so small it doesn’t to this day have a traffic light. Now a Los Angeles denizen, he has written the best-selling, award-winning novel “Until September” and nine screenplays, revealing truths through humor and horror. His short thrillers “Cole & Colette” and “One-Hit Wonder” have been accepte…

1
023 - Say “Yes, And!” to Grategy with Lisa Ryan 54:55

3M ago54:55

54:55

In this episode of Yes, And with Avish Parashar, I sit down with Lisa Ryan, a gratitude strategist, speaker, and author of Gear Up for Greatness. Lisa shares her journey of transforming gratitude into a powerful workplace strategy and explains how organizations can use appreciation to retain top talent, build better relationships, and foster thrivi…

1
Robert Monroe--Former Casting Executive Turned Author!!! 33:18

3M ago33:18

33:18

Author Robert Monroe knows well of the world he has written about. Though he was not in a rock band, he knows the entertainment world well. Monroe worked as a casting director and talent executive for a dozen years, including projects with the Walt Disney Company and the United Paramount Network. He’s also a museum-exhibited photographer. Bungalow …

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022 - Solo Episode - Say “Yes, And!” to Experimentation, Not Execution 33:58

3M ago33:58

33:58

In this episode of Yes, And, I dive into the idea of thinking in terms of experimentation, not execution, especially when it comes to reaching big, impossible goals. As professionals, we're often encouraged to follow rigid plans and execute them to perfection. But in a world of constant change, creativity, and uncertainty, sometimes we need to let …

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021 - Say “Yes, And!” to Connecting Through Technology with Roger Courville 1:06:16

4M ago1:06:16

1:06:16

In this episode, I talk to Roger Courville, a virtual events pioneer with over 25 years of experience. Roger shares his journey from the early days of 'internet conferencing' to becoming a recognized expert on adapting in-person interactions to virtual settings. He explains the analyze, map, discover framework, a systematic approach for turning res…

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RJ Stewart--Epic TV, Film and Fiction Writer!! 29:51

4M ago29:51

29:51

RJ Stewart is an author and television writer who has worked in Hollywood for 22 years, working on Xena: Warrior Princess. He has been lauded by stars like Lucy Lawless for his writing Xena as a flawed person who struggled, but always made the right choices. RJ has also collaborated with Kevin Costner, James Garner, Charlie Sheen and Pierce Brosnan…

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020 - Say ‘Yes, And!’ to Setting Impossible Goals 35:11

4M ago35:11

35:11

In this episode, I explore why setting “SMART” goals — specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound — might actually be the thing holding you back. While SMART goals are great for achieving incremental progress, they can also make your goals feel like checklists, leading to disengagement and boredom. Instead, I challenge you to set an…

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Ep170 Top Hits of 2024 with Lila 1:28:38

4M ago1:28:38

1:28:38

In episode 170 of the Guitar Music Theory audio podcast, I look back at some of the top songs from 2024 with a very special guest, my 12-year-old daughter, Lila! 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated t…

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019 - Solo Episode - Say “Yes, And!” to Your Persistent ‘Yes, Buts’ 31:11

4M ago31:11

31:11

Happy New Year! In this first solo episode of 2025, I dive into the powerful concept of overcoming the "persistent yes, but" that so often holds us back from pursuing our goals and dreams - how small mental roadblocks can prevent us from taking meaningful action and shares a framework for transforming those "yes, buts" into "yes, ands." Learn how r…

1
Patrick Adams--Kids' Music Composer, Writer and Podcast Host!! 30:48

4M ago30:48

30:48

Born to American parents in Beirut, Lebanon, Patrick Adams’ love of travel may have begun on his first flight when he was just four days old. Patrick spent his early years in such exotic locations as Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Las Palmas, Canary Islands. Not surprisingly, he graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in Travel and…

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018 - Solo Episode - Say ”Yes, And!” To Hallmark Christmas Movies 1:21:21

5M ago1:21:21

1:21:21

In this holiday special of Yes And, I’m stepping away from the usual format to share something fun and festive. I’m dropping in a full episode of my old podcast, In a World of...Improvised Movie Homages, where we played improv games to parody different movie genres. This one’s all about the magic of Hallmark Christmas movies—their charm, predictabi…

1
Mark Farner--Captain of Grand Funk Railroad!! 32:13

5M ago32:13

32:13

As one of the founding members, lead singer, lead guitarist, and wrote more than 90% of the Grand Funk music catalog, Farner has always been known as the energetic driving force on stage, the engine that pulled the original Grand Funk Railroad to the top of the charts. From his soulful voice and power rock riffs, to fueling the Funk with his atomic…

1
017 - Solo Episode - Say “Yes, And!” to Being Present 23:34

5M ago23:34

23:34

In this episode of Yes, And with Avish Parashar, I dive into the critical yet often overlooked skill of being present. Whether you're in a leadership role, working with coworkers, or navigating personal relationships, being fully present in the moment is the key to effective communication, emotional management, and fostering positive outcomes in ch…

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David Paul Brooks--Rap Mogul, Businessman and Owner of No Bad Days!! 22:52

5M ago22:52

22:52

David Paul Brooks, or DPB, as he is known, is a positive rap artist, songwriter, actor, clothing designer, mentor, motivational speaker and Co-Founder and Co-Owner of BreBro International Group LLC and DPB Muzik Inc. His goal is to give people, particularly youth, an alternative and cutting-edge message in music that can set them free from painf…

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Ep169 Good Christmas Songs to Learn 51:54

5M ago51:54

51:54

In episode 169 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I review some Christmas song guitar lessons I’ve previously posted on YouTube. These lessons feature great Christmas songs to learn, and I’ll break down the nuggets of music theory wisdom each one provides. Topics include passing chords, chord melody, playing in sixths, and more. Join the email lis…

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016 - Say “Yes, And” to Workplace Conflict (and Collaboration) with David Dye 55:27

5M ago55:27

55:27

In this episode of "Yes, And with Avish Parashar," I chat with David Dye, President of Let's Grow Leaders and co-author of "Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Workplace Conflict." David shares his insights on how to transform workplace conflict into constructive conversations. We explore key phrases that can help you navigate difficult discussions, …

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015 - Solo Episode: Say “Yes, And!” to Uncertainty 20:23

5M ago20:23

20:23

In this solo episode of Yes, And with Avish Parashar, I’m diving deeper into a key theme from my conversation with DEI expert Jess Pettitt: stepping into uncertainty. I’ll explain how embracing uncertainty—not only in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work but in life—can lead to creativity, growth, and positive change. I also share an improv …

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Ryan Millar--Improviser, Author, Coach and Freestyle Rapper!! 42:01

5M ago42:01

42:01

Ryan Millar is a Canadian-born Amsterdam-based coach, story trainer and communications consultant. In his work, he leans heavily on the tools he gained as an improviser and actor, supplemented by his years in corporate communications and content creation, to help people be more authentic and more effective in their professional and personal lives. …

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014 - Say “Yes, And!” to “Good Enough” with Jess Pettitt 55:12

5M ago55:12

55:12

In this episode of "Yes, And with Avish Parashar," I welcome the insightful Jess Pettitt, a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) speaker, author, and consultant. With nearly two decades of experience, Jess has empowered countless individuals and organizations to embrace inclusivity while navigating the complexities of human interaction with humor…

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Patrick Zmina--Jack of all trades and Improviser Looking for Flashes of Brilliance! 26:52

6M ago26:52

26:52

Patrick Zmina is a mainstay on the Imposters Theater stage in Cleveland. He is a musician, former cancer biologist, and a current software developer. He is constantly chasing flashes of brilliance wherever he can find them, from rock climbing to gaming to cooking. You can catch him on Improv Game Night and Comedy Court every month at Imposters Thea…

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Adulting on Your Own Terms Pt 3 - Vision = Goals + Body Cues + Community 15:35

6M ago15:35

15:35

Send us a text ILP: Adulting on Your Own Terms Pt 3 Lori discusses a framework for achieving a fulfilling adult life, emphasizing that vision = goals + body cues + community. She explains how setting clear, achievable goals, such as reducing overwhelmed days or minimizing food waste, can help manage expectations and improve daily life. Body cues, l…

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013 - Solo Episode: Say “Yes, And!” to Creatively Using AI 42:35

6M ago42:35

42:35

Do you consider yourself creative? Whether you’re an artist, a professional, or someone who thinks they “just aren’t creative,” this episode is for you. In this solo episode, I dive into the true essence of creativity and show how everyone can access their own creative genius. Building on last week’s conversation with Dan Nestle about AI, I share h…

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Lilia Bogoeva--The Inner Demon Crusher!! 28:36

6M ago28:36

28:36

Lilia Bogoeva "The Inner Demon Crusher" is a professional performing artist and personal development coach. As a musician, comics creator, and inspirational speaker, she is on a mission to motivate people to overcome adversity through authenticity and find true strength. Her mission comes from a genuine place, after overcoming her own struggles. Sh…

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012 - Say “Yes, And” to Communication and A.I. with Dan Nestle 1:01:28

6M ago1:01:28

1:01:28

Are you using storytelling in your work? Are you using AI tools? If you answered “no” to either of those question, you need this episode! If you answered “yes,” to both of them, you should still listen as you may gain more insight and ideas on how you can do both more effectively. My guest on this week’s episode is Dan Nestle. Dan is an award-winni…

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Tommy Hough--Election 2024 Democratic Autopsy 46:23

6M ago46:23

46:23

Let's talk with Tommy Hough about the 2024 Elections! Where did we, as Democrats and liberals go wrong here? There's a hell of a lot to unpack. Give this one a listen for some history and ideas of where to go from here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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011 - Solo Episode - Say “Yes, And!” to Vulnerability 39:44

6M ago39:44

39:44

In this solo episode, I dive deeper into the idea of psychological safety, building on my conversation with Jason Eisner from last week. If you haven't listened to that episode yet, I highly recommend checking it out for a foundational understanding of how a psychologically safe environment can drive team performance and innovation. Join me as I re…

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Applied Improvisation Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen