Most workplaces focus too much on structure and not enough on fun. But what if the secret to a thriving team was something unexpected—like improv? Fortunately, today’s guest is here to break down everything you need to know about improv and how it can benefit you and your team.

Meet Joel Zeff. Joel creates energy. His spontaneous humor and vital messages have thrilled audiences for more than 25 years. As a national speaker, work culture expert, author, and humorist, Joel captivates audiences with a unique blend of hilarious improvisational comedy and essential ideas on work and life.

He has shared his experience and insight on collaboration, leadership, change, communication, innovation, fun and passion at more than 2,500 events. His new book, “Make the Right Choice: Lead with Passion, Elevate Your Team, and Unleash the Fun at Work,” is now available.

In this episode, you’ll discover practical ideas for bringing fun into the workplace—from skit nights to appreciation rituals–in ways that translate to greater collaboration every day. Joel and I also discuss why great leaders should focus on setting their teams up for success rather than simply directing them.

Plus, in the extended episode available to Podcast+ members, we talk about navigating change with an improv-inspired mindset.

Join the conversation now!

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Conversation Topics

(00:00) Introduction
(02:49) How improv principles improve teamwork and leadership
(05:31) Examples of improv games and their workplace implications
(13:07) Why fun at work matters (and how to introduce it)
(17:15) Building “team currency” through shared experiences
(22:07) The best question a leader can ask
(26:10) How to facilitate an improv game with your team
(30:53) A great manager Joel has worked for
(34:49) Keep up with Joel
(36:33) [Extended Episode Only] How to navigate change with an improv mindset
(43:07) [Extended Episode Only] The one thing you can’t do in improv (and why it matters for teams)

Additional Resources:

- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month

- Read the full transcript here

- Follow me on Instagram here

- Visit my website for more here

- Upskill your team here

- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel here

Keep up with Joel Zeff

- Follow Joel on LinkedIn here

- Grab a copy of his book Make the Right Choice here

- Visit his website for more information here

Free Excerpt on Teamwork from Make the Right Choice

Joel is providing members of Podcast+ with an excerpt on Teamwork from his book Make the Right Choice.

To get this guest bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.

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The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive, and great work gets done.

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348: Master Collaboration and Leadership Using Improv Techniques with Joel Zeff

The Modern Manager