Navigating Change with Improv: A Conversation with Mary Lemmer

In this insightful episode, Danita Cummins is joined by Mary Lemmer, an entrepreneur and consultant specializing in intentionality-designed improv techniques. They discuss how improv can be a powerful tool for leadership development, helping individuals and teams navigate change effectively. The episode also includes an announcement of a 30-day comfort challenge with Melony Brown.

Key Takeaways:  

• Improv for Leadership Development: Mary Lemmer shares how improv techniques can help leaders and teams manage change and uncertainty.
• Core Principles of Improv:  Learn about the four core principles Mary uses in her coaching: "Yes, And," "Take Everything as a Gift," "Play the Scene You're In," and "If It Feels Weird, Do It."
• Navigating Change: Tips and strategies for handling positive and negative personal and professional changes.
• Creating Psychological Safety: Acknowledging the reality and creating a space for shared vulnerability can enhance team dynamics.
• Individual vs. Team Coaching: Integrating individual and team coaching for sustainable growth and development is important.

Featured Segments:

1. Introduction and Welcome: Danita introduces the topic and the guest, Mary Lemmer.
2. Discussion on Improv Techniques: Mary explains how improv can be applied to leadership and change management.
3. Core Principles Explained: This section provides an in-depth look at the four core principles of improv and how they can be practiced.
4. Psychological Safety and Shared Vulnerability: Discuss the importance of creating a safe environment for team communication.
5. Coaching Models: Comparing individual and team coaching and why a combined approach is beneficial.
6. Mary’s Upcoming Book: Sneak peek into Mary’s upcoming book on improv and leadership.
7. 30-Day Comfort Challenge: Danita unveils the 30-day comfort challenge initiative with Melanie Brown, encouraging listeners to find new ways to offer comfort to others.

Links and Resources:

• Mary Lemmer’s Substack
• Join the Called Creatives Community
• 30-Day Comfort Challenge
• Mary Lemmer on LinkedIn
• Danita Cummins on LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

• Follow Danita Cummins on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
• Follow the Entrusted to Lead Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts and experiences with the 30-day comfort challenge using the hashtag #ComfortChallenge.

Tag Danita and Mary to let them know how improv techniques are helping you navigate change in your life and work.

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