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.
What Resilience Actually Looks Like?: Lessons Learned From Cancer with Savio P. Clemente
The Lighten Up ProjectMay 19, 202652:43

What Resilience Actually Looks Like?: Lessons Learned From Cancer with Savio P. Clemente

What happens after life completely changes you? In this deeply moving episode, Savio P. Clemente shares how surviving cancer twice reshaped his understanding of resilience, healing, and leadership—and...

How Songs Can Change Your Life with Ruth Wishengrad
The Lighten Up ProjectMay 14, 202654:40

How Songs Can Change Your Life with Ruth Wishengrad

What if the words playing in your head could actually heal you? In this powerful episode, Ruth Wishingrad reveals how music, repetition, and emotion can help you shift your inner dialogue, reconnect w...

Can Laughter Really Improve Mental Health? A Conversation with Frank King
The Lighten Up ProjectMay 12, 202636:26

Can Laughter Really Improve Mental Health? A Conversation with Frank King

What if laughter could help save a life—including your own? In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Frank King shares how humor opens the door to conversations about depression and suicide—and why...

How Laughter Saved My Life (A Mental Health Story You Need to Hear)
The Lighten Up ProjectMay 07, 202624:51

How Laughter Saved My Life (A Mental Health Story You Need to Hear)

What if one moment—one sound—could change everything? In this deeply personal episode, Malcolm shares the story of how laughter interrupted his darkest moment, helped him reclaim his voice, and became...