What if the secret to surviving chaos at work isn’t just strategy—it's laughter?
In this eye-opening return to Thrive Loud, host Lou Diamond brings back the incomparable Kathy Klotz-Guest: speaker, podcaster, workshop leader, humorist, and “human connector.” This episode is a masterclass in how organizations (and individuals!) can harness improv, humor, and creativity to navigate relentless uncertainty, adapt to change, and strengthen connection—even in an AI-driven workplace.
Key Highlights:
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Improv in Leadership: Kathy reveals why the “yes, and…” mindset from improv isn’t just about saying yes—it’s about embracing curiosity, experimentation, and resilience in fast-changing environments.
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The AI-Human Balance: Think AI is coming for your creativity? Kathy demystifies why human skills—humor, storytelling, connection—can’t be automated, and shares how to partner with AI for efficiency without losing your humanity.
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Culture Check: Discover why laughter is a leading indicator of healthy workplaces, and how losing humor could mean losing your best talent.
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Building Trust and Connection: Kathy shares post-pandemic observations: teams are more disconnected than ever, and trust is low. She challenges leaders to tackle this head-on, not just with words, but by creating cultures that encourage play, vulnerability, and genuine human interaction.
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The Power of Content Creation: Hear why sharing authentic stories (even the messy, funny ones) can build bridges and encourage audience engagement—plus the unexpected gifts creators receive in return.
Ready to make your workplace future-proof, fun, and more human than ever? Start with a smile—and “keep it human.”
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Adapting Through Improv and Humor
04:34 Embracing Adaptability and Humor
09:34 Embracing AI for Workplace Efficiency
13:03 Connection and Change Post-Pandemic
15:06 "Confront Organizational Issues Directly"
18:00 "The Gift of Relatability"
20:52 Podcast Growth & Scheduling Balance
26:23 Comedy in Mundane Moments
28:07 "Comedy's Essential Truth"
32:13 "Epic Global Family Journey"
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