What if the thing standing between you and your most creative self is just your inner critic — and you could learn to talk back to it? Pioneering physical theater and improvisation artist Joya Cory has spent over 50 years teaching people to take creative risks, quiet the voice that says "don't," and rediscover the freedom to play. She joins Malcolm for a wide-ranging conversation on fearless creativity, collaboration, and why the arts might be exactly what a divided culture needs most.
What You'll Hear
- How improvisation helps people move beyond fear and self-consciousness
- Why “yes, and” depends on listening, offering, and accepting
- How consistent practice can build confidence and quiet the inner critic
- Why fear of humiliation can become one of the biggest barriers to creativity
- How the arts and improvisation can encourage stronger human connection
A note to listeners: this episode includes the guest's personal political views and brief references to family history with depression, shared candidly as part of her own story. Any political opinions expressed are the guest's own and don't reflect an editorial position of the show.
Resources Mentioned
- Joya Cory's book: Two Worlds at the Same Time: Full Spectrum Improvisation for the Theater and Life (available on Amazon)
- Joya's virtual and in-person improvisation classes — joyacory.com
- Malcolm Grissom's work at the World Laughter Organization™
Featured Guest: Joya Cory
Joya Cory is a pioneering physical theatre and improvisation artist who has been creating, performing, directing, and teaching since the 1970s. Her work explores creativity, collaboration, movement, and fearless self-expression. She is also the author of Two Worlds at the Same Time: Full Spectrum Improvisation for the Theater and Life and teaches virtual and in-person improvisation classes.
Connect with Joya Cory:
Email: joyacory@gmail.com
Website: joyacory.com
Free Gift: My class tuition is sliding scale. Check website joyacory.com
Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom
Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant.
Follow Malcolm:
Website: malcolmgrissom.com
Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom
Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/
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