The Lighten Up Project

The Lighten Up Project

Hosted by comedian, Laughter Leader, and Engagement Specialist Malcolm Grissom, The Lighten Up Project is where humor meets healing. This interview-style podcast explores how applied improv, laughter, and joyful connection are transforming schools and communities facing serious challenges like bullying, suicide, and mental health struggles. Featuring stories from students, educators, comedians, and mental health leaders, each episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t have to be heavy — it can be honest, human, and hilariously hopeful. ✨ Laugh louder. Lead lighter. Live brighter.
How to Use Laughter to Reduce Stress and Gain Emotional Balance With Joyologist Steve Wilson
The Lighten Up ProjectApril 02, 202647:36

How to Use Laughter to Reduce Stress and Gain Emotional Balance With Joyologist Steve Wilson

What if laughter wasn’t just something you do… but something that helps you survive and thrive? In this episode, Steve Wilson reveals how humor creates emotional balance, reduces overwhelm, and gives ...

Finding Joy in Dirt, Music, and Friendship: The Playful Life of Leslie Outier
The Lighten Up ProjectMarch 26, 202648:36

Finding Joy in Dirt, Music, and Friendship: The Playful Life of Leslie Outier

What if play isn’t just something we grow out of—but something we grow into ? In this episode, Malcolm talks with musician and urban gardener Leslie Outier about laughter, creativity, and how music, n...

How Humor, Music, and Spiritual Play Help Us Lighten Up with Erin Shannon
The Lighten Up ProjectMarch 19, 202653:57

How Humor, Music, and Spiritual Play Help Us Lighten Up with Erin Shannon

What if healing didn’t always require seriousness? In this playful and insightful conversation, Malcolm sits down with musician, comedian, and intuitive Erin “Queenie” Shannon to explore how laughter,...

Why Music, Toys, and Play Still Matter: A Conversation with Robert A. Medeiros
The Lighten Up ProjectMarch 12, 202645:37

Why Music, Toys, and Play Still Matter: A Conversation with Robert A. Medeiros

What if joy isn’t something you find… but something you grow ? In this playful and heartfelt conversation, Malcolm sits down with musician Robert Medeiros of The Clarences to explore how music, imagin...